The Power in Silence and SolitudeSample

AN INVITATION TO RECEIVE

Two areas of scriptures have always had me pondering and meditating on their truths. They entice me with a rich invitation to consider.

The first truth revolves around the idea of PEACE.

· In John 14:27, Jesus offers, “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.”

· Then, in Phil 4:7, we are reminded, “…the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

If we are offered the GIFT of peace that passes all understanding, why wouldn’t we accept that gift? Do we need to OPEN that gift? It is a gift, not as the world gives. He is the author of our peace, not of confusion. (1 Cor 14:33). Let us tether our peace of mind to the character and faithfulness of God and not to people, events, or circumstances. This is something to meditate on. His Presence will revitalize and refresh our souls, leading us with His peace and not the chaos of this world.

The second area revolves around the idea of abundance and abundant living.

· John 10:10, "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life and that they may have it more abundantly."

Likewise, if we are offered the GIFT of an abundant life, why am I living out of so much less? Am I living far below my privilege as a believer?

The Lord pursues an intimate relationship with us whereby we can live FROM His fullness, abundance, and peace versus FOR approval, exhaustion, and trying harder on the performance treadmill. We are invited to this place. Maybe we need to redefine some things. What does living an abundant life mean?

Ponder these questions. Do you need to reframe your life? Does He invite you into a rest for your weary soul? Is His yoke truly easy and light? Do you have enough emotional margin to waste time worrying about things when He offers you peace beyond all understanding? Can you trust that He goes before you and goes with you? Can you trust that He can never fail or forsake you, therefore you can walk into each new day unafraid?

I am not saying there won’t be any trials - we know that in this world there will be many trials (John 16:33). I am just asking us to consider His invitation to peace through trust.

You are invited. I am invited. EVERYDAY! Let’s live in an intimate relationship with our Savior, our Knitter, our Creator, and our Knower. What a privilege!