Joy Bomb: A 8-Day Devotional by Tauren Wellsಮಾದರಿ

Day 7

Finding Peace in the Pressure

Ever notice how the hardest seasons in life tend to be the ones that shape you the most? Tension, pressure, and pain aren’t just random struggles we have to push through—they’re often signs that we’re stepping into something bigger than ourselves.

Think about it: When you work out, your muscles only get stronger by facing resistance. The same is true spiritually. Growth happens when we face challenges that stretch us beyond our comfort zones. Romans 5:3-4 spells it out clearly:

"We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope."

In other words—hard times aren’t pointless. They’re producing something in us. They’re strengthening our faith, deepening our character, and building the kind of hope that doesn’t crumble under pressure.

The Peace That Doesn’t Make Sense

Paul talks about a kind of peace in Philippians 4 that goes beyond our understanding. It’s not the kind of peace that comes from perfect circumstances or everything going our way. It’s the kind of peace that doesn’t make sense—the kind that holds you steady even when everything around you feels like chaos.

Isaiah 26:3 gives us this promise:

"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you."

This kind of peace isn’t automatic. It’s something we choose to cultivate through daily connection with God—through prayer, worship, time in His Word, and reminding ourselves of His promises. The more we anchor ourselves in Him, the less life’s storms can shake us.

Jesus made it clear: “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

That means peace isn’t about avoiding trouble. It’s about trusting Jesus through it.

Letting Peace Rule

Colossians tells us to let peace rule in our hearts. That doesn’t mean life will always feel peaceful on the outside, but it does mean that peace can be the authority over our inner world. When peace is what’s ruling in our hearts—not fear, not anxiety, not chaos—it changes how we respond to everything.

But here’s the key: we have to choose it. The world gives us every ingredient for fear, stress, and worry. But Philippians 4:8 tells us what we should be focusing on instead:

• What is true
• What is honorable
• What is right
• What is pure
• What is lovely
• What is praiseworthy

It’s not always easy, but when we intentionally guide our thoughts toward God’s truth instead of our fears, we start to experience the kind of peace that lasts.

Devotional Questions:

1. What pressures or struggles are you facing right now that might actually be growing your faith?
2. How do you usually handle stress? Do you let it rule over you, or do you let peace take the lead?
3. What’s something you’ve been praying about that you need to trust God with fully?
4. When was a time you experienced peace that didn’t make sense in the middle of a difficult season?
5. How can you be more intentional about filling your mind with things that bring peace instead of anxiety?

Life will always have tension and pressure. But the real question is—what will rule your heart? Fear? Worry? Or the unshakable peace that comes from knowing God is in control? Choose peace today. 💛