We could sum up all of our life struggles with one word: peace; honestly, our lack of peace. How much turmoil could we avoid by building a life of peace? This is possible by starting with a foundation based on God’s promises.
God doesn’t ask us to live in a dream world or deny reality. He tells us we will indeed face struggles. He assures us that if we follow Him, He will give us the strength we need to make it through.
Building peace through faith
This is where faith comes in. Do we believe God is with us? In every circumstance, can we remain calm, knowing God is working for our benefit? Even the apostles struggled with keeping their faith strong in the face of adversity. At the most critical time, Peter denied he knew Jesus three times—even after Jesus told him in advance, he was going to deny Him. Yet Peter became one of our greatest Christian leaders.
Sometimes we all need a good cry to release our emotions. Don’t ignore or bottle up feelings, allowing them to fester into self-recrimination or regret. Deal with negative things constructively, like talking with a trusted friend, and practicing self care. Keep in mind, this is a lifelong endeavor. Setbacks are not judgements, be comfortable with small steps of progress.
For example, allow moments of fear or doubt to float by like clouds in a storm. Dark skies always clear and the sun will shine again. Keep a list of Bible verses that encourage, empower, and inspire faith. We only find peace in the mystery, trust, and worship of the one and only God, not understanding and control. Begin building a life of peace by focusing on the precious promises of God.
Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7
Jesus said, I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.
John 14:27
You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.
Isaiah 26:3-4
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