Walking along a quiet mountain trail as the sun peeks over the horizon is almost as peaceful as it gets. Yet, most of life is spent in noisy places where work deadlines loom, and family demands take precedence. For many, life feels unsettled, as if the ground is shifting beneath them, leaving relationships off-kilter and inner peace hard to find.
But even in uncertainty, the words of this old hymn come to mind, painting a picture of peace as a river:
“When peace like a river attendeth my way,
when sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
“It is well, it is well with my soul.”
Penned by Horatio G. Spafford, after the tragic loss of his daughters, it’s a touching reminder of the peace that surpasses understanding. And it’s from the continual flow of Christ’s peace that we can walk securely, even when life is unsettled.
Rejoice in the Nearness of God
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:4-5)
When life is uncertain, we might assume God is distant. But the more we entertain these thoughts, the more unsettled we become. Keep in mind the enemy loves to create a sense of distance between the Lord and us. He tries to convince us that God is angry and holding us at arm’s length. But the sooner we recognize the lies, the sooner we can rejoice again.
You may know someone who has a gentle spirit, someone who remains calm in the chaos and encouraging in the trials. Praise the Lord for such people! These are the ones who never lose sight of God’s nearness. In fact, they grow closer to the Lord through hardship.
A beautiful example of this rejoicing spirit is found in Proverbs 31:25, saying, “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” The ability to laugh, or as the Amplified Bible says, “she smiles at the future,” is a divine gift indeed. And we, too, can ask for the gift of rejoicing. No matter what comes, no matter how unsettled life feels, we can walk in peace knowing God is near.
Thank Him in Every Situation
“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.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
Whenever our family goes through a trial, my mom is the first to remind me to thank God in every situation. Her faithfulness to give thanks, even when the road looks bleak, is truly inspiring.
Anxiety can’t stand up to gratitude. The more we worship, praise, and seek the Lord, the less footing anxiety has. Yes, it takes practice, and lots of it, but when thankful prayers become a habit, peace returns.
Here are a few practical examples:
• When financial crises arise, thank God for His faithful provision. Remember how He’s provided in the past and trust Him to give again.
• When health struggles threaten to keep you down, praise God that He made you wonderfully and fearfully. Ask for His healing touch, believing for the miracle.
• When relationships are fractured, worship the Lord in Spirit and in Truth. Let praises come from your mouth instead of negative complaints.
What a loving Father we have, who invites us to bring every prayer and petition to Him. With kindness and patience, He hears every request. When we enter His courts with thanksgiving in our hearts, our steps become peace-filled in His presence.
Think About Such Things
“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.” (Philippians 4:8)
If I had to guess what steals our peace the most, I’d have to say it’s our thoughts. Never before in history have we been so bombarded with information - good and bad - as we are today. One controversial post on social media can cause us to spiral, stealing our peace in an instant. One frightening headline can interrupt our day, leading to worry over things we can’t control.
Paul had it right when he exhorted the Philippians to think about whatever was true, noble, proper, pure, lovely, and admirable. And his words are just as applicable to us in this time and place. So, the next time you feel peace start to fade, ask yourself, “Are my thoughts praiseworthy?” It’s a quick way to redirect negative or fearful thinking towards a Godly perspective.
• Scary news headlines become declarations that “God is in control.”
• Controversial posts turn into fervent prayers for peace and unity.
• Unsettled thoughts are taken captive in the name of Jesus.
Walking in peace usually starts with our thoughts. Therefore, let’s fill our minds with peaceful passages such as Colossians 3:15, which says, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
Put Wisdom into Practice
“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 4:9)
I’ve been reading through one chapter of Proverbs each day as a personal goal, and I’ve been reminded of the importance of wisdom in connection with God’s peace. Here are a couple of passages that stand out.
“My son, do not forget my teaching, but have your heart comply with my commandments;
For length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you.” (Proverbs 3:1-2 NASB)
“She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant, and all her paths are peace.” (Proverbs 3:15-17)
So often, when life is unsettled, it’s because we’re lacking wisdom in one area or another. But the good news is we have a Source of wisdom at all times, and all we have to do is ask in faith. (James 1:5-6).
Here’s a quick prayer for wisdom:
“Lord, I don’t know what to do in this situation, and it’s causing me to feel unsettled. Please give me wisdom and clarity, in Jesus’ name.”
When you pray with belief, you can know for sure that God will give you the wisdom you seek. He will open doors that seem locked, and close doors that shouldn’t be open. Along with His divine clarity comes a sense of assurance and peace.
Walking in peace when life feels unsettled doesn’t come naturally to us, but gratefully, we do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. As Galatians 5:25 reminds, “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” This is a sure way to walk in peace, no matter how unsettled life becomes.
More Peaceful Resources for Your Journey:
How I Learned to Remain Peaceful When Chaos Surrounds Me
Living in God’s Blessing: Finding Peace in the Benediction
5 Truths to Help Us Live in Peace and Not Fear
Photo credit:©GettyImages/simonapilolla
