Peace…in spite of.
Have you ever wondered what makes some people be as “calm as a cucumber” while others are frazzled to the bone with the same situation?
How can some be relaxed while others can’t stop wringing their hands?
How come the first move of some is to run to the doctor for a med at the first sign of stress while for others the first response is to drop to their knees in prayer? (Please don’t take that as me saying I’m against meds that serve a purpose).
Much has been made of the difference between happiness and joy. Happiness is dependent on circumstances; joy is in spite of the circumstances.
Peace is the same. There is a settledness, a peace that some people have in spite of their circumstances. There is a well-told story about a lawyer named Horatio Spafford. He, his wife, and four children had booked a passage to Europe for a much-needed vacation, but at the last minute something came up that required his immediate attention. He sent his family ahead with the intention of joining them as soon as possible. The ship collided with another and sunk and only his wife survived. She sent a wire to him: “Saved alone.” In his grief, he booked the next passage to meet up with his wife. When they came to the spot of the shipwreck, the captain pointed it out to him. Mr. Spafford penned these words: “When peace like a river attendeth my way/When sorrows like sea billows roll/Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say/’It is well. It is well with my soul.'”
What kind of peace could lead Mr. Spafford to pen those words when his heart is breaking? A peace that is not dependent on circumstances. That kind of peace comes from the ONE who is bigger than the circumstances. Jesus once said, “My peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you.” That’s the kind of peace I want. How about you?
Oh, Yes!!!!! Absolutely!!!!!
May you find it is a guiding principle today Diane.
The peace that Jesus gives to us when we rest in Him is what gets me through in times of trouble and stress. With Danny’s heart issues lately, the peace that passes understanding is what is seeing both of us through.
Blessings, Bill!
You and Danny are a direct example of the peace I am speaking about. Thanks for sharing that Martha.
We will all likely endure the stresses of this fallen world that will bring us to a place where our only hope lies with our Father in heaven. Where we must put faith in Jesus and allow the Holy Spirit to comfort and reassure us that the best is yet to come.
In the moment and in the midst of the struggle it is difficult to see through the forest, but rest assured, keep following the path God has placed before us and he will lead us out of the forest, out of the valley and into better pastures.
It is that Psalm 23 peace and calm you speak of and what I was alluding to Ryan. Thanks for giving more insight.
True peace and joy, can only come from Our Father, and trusting in His ways and promises. The story of Job, is another example of incredible trust in God’s peace, through horrific circumstances. Thank-you Father for Your everlasting peace and joy that Only You can provide to us.
Good addition with the story of Job, Gail. Thanks.