Peacekeeper

Can you think of a friend or family member that manages to “keep peace” in their family? Are you one? What does a peacekeeper do? How do they navigate between seemingly opposing options, words or actions?

We read in Philippians 4:4 to, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” How is that possible? Do you know of someone that seems to “rejoice in the Lord always” no matter the circumstances? What does that look like?

It would be great to be this positive, but we all have worries and concerns that may make us anxious. Anxiety about a situation in life can be similar to a forecasted storm. There are weather details that suggest a storm is coming, although we are not certain about the outcome. We might change our plans, tie things down, etc., in case it’s severe. We might also pray.

Is prayer part of your daily life or something that occurs to you when you are facing something worrisome? Or is it conversation with God that constantly seeks wisdom and guidance in life? You probably are aware of some prepared prayers in a book or some kind of guide. While these sometimes may seem like rote repetition or memorization, they can also be helpful as they remind and reassure you of God’s presence and care. It can also be very helpful to just speak from your heart. It’s great to start your day with prayer asking God for His guidance and protection for you and your loved ones and thanking Him for His great love for us. That can always be meaningful as we remember God’s promises to us.

Sometimes we are able to influence the circumstances that are causing anxiety and other times not, but we can address how we perceive them and how we react to them. When we read on in this passage from Philippians that we are given guidance, assurance and protection:

• Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
• Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
• And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
• Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
• Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:5-9

These words from the Bible bring comfort that God is with us through the storms and challenges we face.

Closing Prayer:  Dear Lord, when I am anxious, help me to remember Your ultimate strength, Your provision for me even during tough times, and Your never-ending love for me. Through Jesus Christ, amen.

The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to tread on the heights. Habakkuk 3:19
 
I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

This song, “In the Eye of the Storm” by Ryan Stevenson, illustrates God promise to us.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2FqFLKisys