We’ve all heard it…we’ve all said it: I need some peace and quiet!
In the hustle and chaos of this world, we mistakenly think that to have peace means everything and everyone needs to be quiet. The kids need to be napping and not fussing, the TV is turned off, the husband needs to help with the chores, etc. This list goes on. Actually, peace has nothing to do with a quiet surrounding. It’s more about who we are on the inside and how we react.
Merriam-Webster.com defines Peace:
- Freedom from civil disturbance.
- A state of security
- Freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts
Look at #’s 2 and 3: Those can only come from inside ourselves. We must pull those from our inner strength….strength that can only come from one source.
Let’s look at peace in action.
In Mark 4:35-41, Jesus and the disciples are on a boat when a dangerous storm hits. The NIV Bible calls it a “squall.” The disciples are panicking and scared, convinced they are going to die.** Jesus is asleep! He was sleeping through the entire storm! They had to wake him in order for Jesus to calm the storm! So cool! Jesus is living proof that your circumstances do not have to be perfect to have peace.
(**Something to ponder: Why would the disciples think that God would go to all the trouble of sending his Son to this earth only to die on a boat? Those crazy disciples! )
I know you’re probably thinking, “Of course Jesus was asleep, He’s the Living God!” And that is so true. However, what we need to remember is that during Jesus’ walk on this earth… Yes, He was fully God… but He was also fully man. He took on every possible earthly situation that can come against us and shows us the way to stand strong.
So the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed and needing “peace and quiet.” Look to the true source of Peace. You’ll be surprised at how trivial your chaos becomes.
Stay Strong! Stay Sweet!