Finding Peace of Mind

Chuckle: Examiner: "You know very little about the Bible. Can you quote any passage?" Student: "Judas departed and went and hanged himself." Examiner: "Can you quote another?" Student: "Go thou and do likewise."

Quote: “Peace is the gift of God. Do you want peace? Go to God. . . Live your religion, and the very peace of God will dwell and abide with you, for that is where peace comes from, and it doesn't dwell anywhere else.” --John Taylor

"I will lie down in peace and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe" (Psalm 4:8 NLT). "The LORD gives his people strength. The LORD blesses them with peace" (Psalm 29:11 NLT).

Peace of mind is an elusive condition longed for by all but never found by many, even though they continue to search for it. When I reflect on the concept of peace of mind, I cannot do so without being drawn to the only source of such peace -- God himself. It's so easy for us to slip into the world's state of mind and search for peace in all the wrong places and from all the wrong things.

Many of us lie awake at night worrying and fretting about every conceivable thing that has or might go wrong in our lives. Of course, some physical conditions also can prevent us from sleeping soundly. Generally though, I suppose the ability to sleep comfortably and restfully is the best indicator of peace of mind. I read somewhere that if you are having trouble sleeping, stop counting sheep and talk to the Shepherd.

Notice in our first passage that peace and sleep came from knowing that God would keep the psalmist safe. A sense of safety and security are key ingredients for peace of mind. As a Christian, you live in the eternal safety of God's loving arms and you can take solace from His promises never to leave you nor forsake you. If you truly want peace of mind, take God at His word and trust Him in every situation. As I observe the chaos in our world and all the things that cause us anxiety and fear, I'm reminded of this:

"Picture a massive hurricane raging over the ocean. On the surface of the sea the violent winds whip the water into giant waves and create a scene of havoc and chaos. Yet, a mere twenty-five feet below the surface, the waters are clear and calm. The fish there go on living their lives totally unaware of the thunderous tumult just above them. When there is "depth," there is peace. So it is with the Christian life." --Illustrations for Biblical Preaching; Edited by Michael Green

The depth of your peace of mind is dependent upon the depth of your faith. You can have peace of mind by always remembering that God is in control and the trials you may be enduring are only temporary. Take heart and let God fill you with his peace. "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:7 NIV).

Love, Jerry & Dotse