What is your soul craving today, friend? We’re not even through the first month of the year, yet for many, the low-grade anxiety that followed us into 2021 is reaching fever-pitch. Perhaps it’s time to pause and pray. Right now. Because I don’t know about you, but what my soul is craving more than anything else in this season is PEACE…
“Worry is belief gone wrong. Because you don’t believe that God will get it right. But peace – peace is belief that exhales. Because you believe that God’s provision is everywhere – like air.” Ann Voskamp
If we did a quick survey around the globe and asked people what would be at the top of their wish list for 2021, I’m guessing “peace” would be right up there alongside health, hope, love, and the like.
It feels as if we just finished singing carols about “peace on earth” and as we watch the news on any given day, we ache for it to be so.
“Peace of mind” is another longing for us all; that sweet reassurance of being safe and secure. Knowing our loved ones are okay… especially at a time when we yearn to be together.
But peace in our very souls, that deep and perfect peace that displaces fear and worry and stress—that’s the peace I crave. I’m guessing you do, too.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27 (NIV)
It’s not some fluffy, emotional feeling; it’s deep-rooted, unshakable, comforting, all-encompassing. A peace only found in a God who is always trustworthy, loves lavishly, and is completely sovereign. So how do we tap into this peace for our souls?
“So here’s what I’ve learned through it all: Leave all your cares and anxieties at the feet of the Lord, and measureless grace will strengthen you.” Psalm 55:22 (TPT)
For the control freaks among us, there is such FREEDOM in this! Handing over control of every area of our lives, surrendering to the One who sees and knows all… peace with God that translates into peace with others, peace with ourselves.
I would suggest coming openly and honestly before God in prayer. By spending time in His presence, both speaking and listening. Remember, we get to leave our worries at His feet and are strengthened by His grace.
One of the many lessons learned through this pandemic period is that communication is essential. Our hearts break when we see those who are alone or we have loved ones we can’t hug. We realize how much we took for granted before and now have to be intentional about reaching out to maintain relationships. Likewise, we need to be intentional when it comes to our relationship with our Heavenly Father. To pray wholeheartedly and fervently, asking for peace to reign in our hearts that it might fill us to the brim.
“Prayer guards hearts and minds and causes God to bring peace out of chaos.” Beth Moore
The Bible is full of encouragement and solace for our weary souls. Let me leave you with these words of comfort that you might know His perfect peace in every single moment, day and night:
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (NIV)
Peace and joy,
P.S. I’d love to hop into your inbox once a month with “Laura’s Letters”—my newsletter complete with a giveaway, book reviews, recipe, and a little soul encouragement.
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