"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!" Galations 5:22-23
Peace. That is one of the fruits of the Spirit, and today's focus. Peace can be such a gift. Especially as a parent. When I think of peace, I think of relief, of no worries, and of being loved. In particular, I picture one of my children crying as an infant. Just crying and sobbing away, needing attention. In walks Mommy, and scoops them up, and holds them close. Instantly, the crying stops, the baby relaxes and snuggles into the comfort of Mommy's arms. That is what I picture peace to be. I picture being in the midst of turmoil or trouble, and being able to just call on Jesus and he wraps his arms around me and I am comforted and safe, and have no worries. I can relax in the arms of my Lord, knowing that is exactly where I am supposed to be.
"I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety." Psalm 4:8
"The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace." Psalm 29:11
"But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace" Psalm 37:11
"There is deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil, but joy for those who promote peace." Proverbs 12:20
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." Matthew 5:9
Peace is a blessing. The Spirit gives us the gift of peace that we may find solace and comfort in our Lord. And with that peace, we also have the ability to share that peace. Someone who is filled with peace will not be the one who causes unrest and trouble. It is the peacemaker who can step in and quell disagreement and discord. A life of peace comes directly from grace. It is the Grace of God that gives us peace.
"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all." 2 Thessalonians 3:16
Paul prayed for peace for his converts frequently. He knew that inner peace can only come from the grace that eliminates our sins. God gives us peace as we remember what he has done and as we put his instructions into practice. We can be that model for someone else who is struggling. By being at peace even when we are in trouble, and by portraying a life of peace, we can show others that we know they way to peace. And as we model that peace, others will feel compelled to follow in our footsteps.
Comfort and peace in the arms of my Lord. That is what I want to share with everyone I know. The feeling of being at peace because of God's Grace. A fruit of the Spirit that is a gift indeed.
2 comments:
It is amazing the peace and calmness of mind that you are given when you obey what God tells you to do. I know that when I finally decided that medical school was where I was supposed to go, I never looked back, never had any doubts, and had such peace. Even when things are hard and tiring, or I don't do as well as I would like on a test, I have peace in knowing that I am doing what God wants me to do and He will be the supply of what I need to complete that task.
Very true Claire. I have found that that peace and calmness doesn't only come when you follow through on what God wants you to do, but often when you simply make the decision. When you come to the point where its "okay God, I'm putting this in your hands and I will follow direction." At that precise moment, that peace will announce it's presence. Andy and I have even found that when we make decisions together- it's an instant peace for both of us when we make the correct decision, and when we make the incorrect decision, the unease that ensues is a warning sign for us to re-assess.
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