You’ll never find peace in a world of chaos if you’re looking for the Merriam Webster definition of peace – freedom from disturbance; a state of harmony. In the real world, life isn’t a flat line of calm, yet even still, true peace is possible in spite of our circumstances.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27 (NIV)
Do not let your hearts be troubled
When the heart stops beating, the electrical tracing flat lines. Life is over, no more rhythm, just a smooth, calm, flat line. Oh, but life, life is full of ups and downs. How do we find peace in a world of chaos? Make sure your faith doesn’t flat line.
“Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.” James 2:26 NLT
Peace in a world of chaos
Circumstances ebb and flow and test our faith. Clinging to temporary comforts, the world feels out of control when our security is threatened. Peace in a world of chaos requires a change in perspective, because this life will never be free from waves of turmoil.
Flat lines and waves
A normal EKG tracing shows depolarization of heart muscle followed by repolarization, steady squeeze and relaxation. When the heart quivers, the abnormal rhythm tracing shows monotony, but doesn’t pump life-giving blood. Peace is not a flat-line of circumstances, indeed, peace is like a river.
“God’s peace is like a river, not a pond.”
Beth More
Ups and downs of life
Peace like a river means peace in a strong current, with changing scenery and the unknown around the bend. The place of peace is the place of surrender – not changing circumstances, but changing perspective.
“For he is our peace…” Ephesians 2:14 (KJV)
True peace is holding a firm anchor when the rapids threaten to pull you under. It is a fruit of the spirit, listed right before patience. Maybe there’s a reason for that.
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 (ESV)
Peace that passes understanding comes from understanding where peace comes from.
Hold tight to the word, anchor yourself in it so that you can hold on through the chaos of life and wait for the Prince of Peace.
Grief is like a river too. (read more)
I hope you are joining me on Friday mornings for Facebook live. This week I baked a loaf of bread, well, sort of. I love talking to you, so I created a video series that will start soon called Intermission Summit. If you haven’t already signed up, enter your email address. You won’t get it through this group and it won’t be on social media. Don’t miss out!
