Serenity NOW!
I think with the events that have taken place in the opening week of this new year, we could all use a large dose of peace and serenity. But, where can we turn to get a dose of it?
There is an episode of the TV sitcom, Seinfeld, in which one of the characters, Frank Costanza, tried to overcome his anger issues by repeating the phrase, “Serenity now! Serenity now!”, whenever he felt angry or frustrated. The problem was, the more he screamed, "Serenity now!” the more enraged he would become.
We might try to use catchy phrases to bring peace, but those usually fall flat and run out of gas almost as soon as they fly from our lips. How about turning off the TV or radio or ignoring social media for awhile? We can try ignoring the problems that surround us but that solves nothing — they will be waiting for us when we open our eyes. How about if we “count to ten?” OK, maybe to a hundred…or a thousand? No matter what external devices and tricks we conjure up, problems surround us and peace escapes us. WHAT TO DO?
I have a suggestion. Seek peace from the Author of peace! Although there are many verses in the Bible that speak of peace, I invite you to follow me to just a couple of them. First up — Philippians 4:6-7…
“do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
If we infuse our life with constant communication with God, our life will be encapsulated by His peace. “The gloriousness of our life in Christ is not that we escape from troubles but, rather, possess true peace in the midst of turmoil.” (from, Colossians: Staying Right Side Up in an Upside Down World)
One more verse — Psalm 46:10…
“Be still, and know that I am God…”
The Hebrew word for “be still” means to let go and describes a state of rest. So many times we get wrapped up in the problems of this world and our own struggles and the twists and turns of life that we have a difficult time seeing God at work. What we need to do is let go of the things that are causing strife and give them to God. Once we let go and release them, we can see Him more clearly.
It is when we let go of our fears and anxieties and submit ourselves to the Lord that He will bring true peace to our heart and soul and we will be able to rest in him.
