3 Promises for Peace in Difficult Times

Everyone has a story, right?

When I speak at women’s retreats and conferences, I hear many. Some stories draw laughter. Some leave me speechless, in awe of how God reveals Himself to those who seek Him. How He provides for those who ask. How He grants wisdom to those who lack.

Sometimes those stories break my heart. I hear about adult kids struggling with addictions or going through the throes of abuse or divorce. I hear about grandmothers estranged from their kids and grandchildren and not knowing why. I hear about families grieving a recent loss or walking a cancer journey with a loved one.

Sometimes the only words I can muster are, “I’m so sorry.”

Undoubtedly you have a story, too. Maybe you’ve faced bitter disappointment. A friend or spouse’s betrayal. The pain of watching your child make negative life-altering choices. The ongoing pain of health issues that baffle medical professionals.

Some mornings you wake and force yourself to function. Some days you’d rather stay in bed. Perhaps you’re living a story you wish could be rewritten.

If yours is a difficult story, be encouraged to know that God’s Word says peace is possible. Here are three promises for peace:

• “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you” (2 Thessalonians 3:16NIV).
– Peace is found in the person of Jesus, not in circumstances. No matter what we face, He is the source that never runs dry. He alone can fill our cup to overflowing.

• “I listen carefully to what God the LORD is saying, for he speaks peace to his faithful people” (Psalm 85:8NLT).
– God’s voice consoles us with truth—He is wise and sovereign, He will never leave us, and He can turn bad situations into something good. Turn a deaf ear to the voice of fear that says our circumstances are beyond hope. Ignore the whispers that say God’s intent toward us cannot be trusted. Listen to God’s voice and hang onto every word He speaks.

• “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7 NLT).
– Experiencing God’s peace happens when we take specific action steps. First, refuse to worry about those difficult circumstances. Worry won’t change a thing, but it will rob us of today’s joy. Second, turn those worries into prayers. Pour out your concerns to God rather than letting them mess with your mind. Third, recall God’s faithfulness in the past and thank Him for all He has done. Then thank Him, by faith, in advance for what He’s going to do in answer to your prayers. Taking those action steps leads to experiencing God’s peace.

Your story might contain twists and plots you didn’t choose but hang onto hope because peace is possible. Keep your ears tuned to God’s voice. Listen for His promises, and do what He says. Keep your focus on Him, and you will know a peace that cannot be manufactured.

#bgbg2 #PeaceIsPossible #InnerPeace #PeaceDespiteCircumstances