PHILIPPIANS 4:7
This is a very familiar passage, but I recently read it with new understanding. I was awed by the idea that peace can guard our hearts. The more I thought about it, the more it made sense. When I am stressed out or upset, I begin to question God, forget to read my Bible, and have negative attitudes. I can become so rundown and consumed by anxiety that I get sick. If I rely on God’s peace, however, I am protected from these pressures. When my mind is going in a thousand directions at once, God’s voice is crowded out. Once I realize that I am completely overwhelmed, I drop everything to reflect on the Lord. Time and again, He has gently reminded me that stillness is essential for my spiritual and mental well-being. My soul is calmed by His command to “be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). We would save ourselves from worry if we learned to rest in Him. You can dispel anxiety by setting aside a portion of every day for Bible reading, listening to uplifting music, and spending small amounts of time in solitude. Do you let anxiety and fear quench God’s peace? Do you find yourself constantly frustrated and worn down? Trust in the Lord and believe that He will see you through. Do not rely on your own strength, but surrender yourself to His power. Surely the God who clothes the lilies and feeds the birds can calm your anxious soul.
Jessica Runk, 19, Patrick Henry College, Purcellville, VA
God, peace would be really nice.
Today when I’m stressed, please remind me
that peace in You is only a prayer away.