How To Maximise Your LifeSample

At Peace

Peace is something everyone aspires to in some degree. Whether it's a working mum who longs for a moment of "peace and quiet" or whether two powerful allies are working through the intricacies of political negotiation, the idea of peace is living in a state of contentment and tranquillity of security, freedom and social harmony.

You've probably heard of the expression "Is the glass half empty or half full?" This is a way you can measure a person's perspective. What do you see when you look at the glass? Do you focus on what you have or what you don't have? What you focus on in life determines whether or not you will experience peace in your heart.

The Bible gives us clear instructions about finding and living in a place of peace, as well as what takes away our peace:

What a worry worry is!
Anxiety and worry work in opposition to inner peace. When you are worried or anxious about something, you do not have peace. In fact, worrying is a genuine health-hazard! Proverbs 12:25 says "Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression". The New Living Bible says, "Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up."

Worrying is about trusting in your own ability but Philippians 4:6-7 says,

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Peace cannot be earned, but it can be found. The key is to turn worry into thanksgiving.

Romans 5:1 teaches us that because we are justified by faith in Jesus, we have peace with God. The grace of God means you don't have to earn peace, it comes through faith in Jesus, relying on and believing in His Word.

PRAYER: Father I desire to live in peace. Help me to trust You with the challenges I face and to focus on all that You have done in my life with a thankful heart.