Peace! Be still.

Sometimes we find ourselves in situations where it seems like our world is crashing and all hell has been let loose, like the saying “when it rains, it pours”. You have a lot to deal with in your personal life and at the same time you get unpleasant news from family and friends, difficult situations that need immediate intervention. At this point, all you want to do is Scream Aloud! Yes, I was at this place, I tried my best to control my nerves and call on the Jesus! I heard the Lord say to me “Peace be still, stay calm and let me handle this”. I was able to stay calm or so I thought but I could not stay calm enough to allow God handle it, I thought I could figure it out especially being a person who “thinks” she can control everything.  I relentlessly allowed myself to get so worried about my loved ones. Yes, I prayed but I still felt like the weight was on my shoulder. In Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV), the Bible reminds us to “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; ⁷ and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus”. In this situation it was obvious I prayed but I skipped the preliminary which was to be anxious for nothing.

Can I love my friends and family more than God loves them? A God who created them in His image and likeness? How could I heap a burden on myself when the Lord is supposed to be my ever present help? Why did I allow myself to flounder in self-inflicted pain when the Lord instructed me in Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV), “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, 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.” The Lord did not promise us a perfect life but He told us in John 16:33b (NIV), “But take heart! I have overcome the world”

I want to prompt you that no matter what you are going through, God is your ever present help. In Luke 12: 25-28 (NLT), the Bible asks us “Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things? Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?” My sisters and brother in Christ, when you find yourself in situations beyond your control: Pour out your heart to Him, Praise Him with steadfast faith and sip on your cup of fresh water “For He Himself is our peace”  Ephesians 2:14a (AMP). While writing this piece, a worship song came to my heart: “Peace Be Still” by Lauren Daigle. I pray it speaks to every storm in your life.

Peace! Be Still.