Peace in the Storm

by Belinda Blevins 

Verse for Thought:
Peace I leave with you: My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. John 14:27 ( NIV)

Peace must be practical and practiced! I need to start each day with God, reading his word and praying. Then when something that causes unrest knocks at my door, it will not upset the peace of the day. I must remind myself that nothing is beyond the range of God. Many families are in crisis today. Storms, death, divorce, and drug addiction are stealing the peace from so many families. It saddens my heart that in times like these we try everything but God to fix the problem. Most of the time, it’s hard to think of peace when chaos is going on. In a chaotic situation our heart lacks peace and we are full of uncertainty, not knowing which way to go. I used to work with juveniles in the court system. It was heart breaking every day to see parents face their day in court not knowing what would happen because of their child’s circumstances. No matter what the situation the pain was overwhelming for both parent and child. It’s very difficult to know that your child could be sent off and locked up for a crime at an early age. Still, I was reminded that God is in control and I would pray. I would remember my quiet time earlier and pray for Gods peace in the storm for those families. Even today I still draw close to God from those experiences. In spite of all the pressure I still try to follow the example of Christ, knowing his peace surpasses all understanding in all situations. Practicing peace in a storm may not be so bad after all. I have learned that during times of suffering, I must walk by faith. I am no longer focusing on the problem, but the problem solver.

Let’s pray:
Father God, thank you for your peace in the times of problems. Father, remind me that you are always in control of every circumstance. Help me to keep our heart open to you at all times. Amen

Take the Next Step:
When you are facing your next storm, practice Peace! Begin your day in prayer so that when the storm comes you will know what to do.