Peace

We are just getting started with a new year, 2011 was a trying year for many and probably very stressful.  There were many devastating circumstances and situations, some weather related and economy related problems.  There were times of turmoil and distress.  Our president seemed to be a total stranger doing most of his thinking on the golf course, losing touch with the people he is supposed to be serving. Economic meltdowns affecting many countries which could result in total collapse leaving many fearful of the future.  

Many are saying and thinking let’s get rid of the old and start fresh with the New Year.  For the nonbeliever these feelings would be normal but for the believer who has the peace of God in his heart he should have a different perspective.  We may not be able to control what goes on around us but we can control our emotions and reactions.  

If you find yourself down and discouraged with unmet expectations and dreams, take your burdens to the Lord.  The Lord said in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”  Jesus, the gentle Shepherd, wants to help you carry whatever burden you have.  He loves you with a compassionate love and He can and will take your burdens and give you His peace, love and joy.

Instead of being stressed out over worldly events that have taken place, sit down and take the word of God in your hands and seek the truths and be set free of unnecessary stress and turmoil.  Read these words in:

Colossians 3:15–17 and let them soak into your inner being, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.  Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.  Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.”   

John 14:27, “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.”    

Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 

Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

2 Thessalonians 3:16, “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”

These verses should encourage you as you read and meditate on them so don’t drag the burdens of the old year into the new year, let the Lord’s perfect peace dwell in your hearts and minds.  And may this year be the best year of your lives.  God bless you and yours and I wish a very happy New Year for you and your families.