Cultivating a Heart of PeaceSample

Come Away With Jesus into the Quiet Place

More often than I care to admit, the lies of the enemy catapult my mind headfirst down the rabbit hole of worry, fear, and doubt. In an instant, one ridiculous thought after another is strung together as my mind becomes convinced that the worst-case scenario will become my future reality. In this place, the "what if" song ringing in my ears feels like a seven-ton African bush elephant standing on my chest. In this place, any hope of experiencing true peace feels like an impossible dream.

At the bottom of the rabbit hole, darkness threatens to snuff out the light. In this place, we must choose what we will do with our worry, fear, and doubt. We can bury our heads in the sand, hoping that the thoughts of despair rolling around in our minds will somehow vanish into thin air. We can turn up the noise of life to drown out the voices in our heads. At first glance, these options may seem like the path of least resistance.

However, there is another path forward out of the darkness. A path that is often overlooked in a culture plagued by self-sufficiency. Instead of choosing the path of denial or distraction, Jesus invites us to come away with Him into the quiet place.

Matthew 11:28-30 NRSV records Jesus' invitation this way:

"Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, 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."

‭In the quiet place, His Light transforms the dark places in our minds. In the quiet place, we experience His gentle healing touch. Alone with Jesus, we can safely lay down our worries, fears, and doubts at His feet. It is here that the peace of Christ that passes all understanding begins to grow in our hearts (See Philippians 4:7 NRSV).

Today, consider the following prayer. "Lord Jesus, I put my faith and hope in You, trusting that You alone are the sole source of peace in my life. Help me to surrender my worries, fears, and doubts daily at Your feet."