Still Waters

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33

Tribulation and trials…two words that we all dread to hear and try to avoid at all costs.  When we are crawling in our darkest valleys and our situation is desperate, we long for God’s peace.  We crave it.  Our sanity is literally hanging on a thread, depending on the ultimate peace of God…the peace that so many people talk about, yet few actually experience.  I honestly didn't understand why that was until my life began a downward spiral a few years ago.  Reflecting back, I realize that I have been tried practically in every aspect of my life – finances, career, school, family, sickness, friendships, longing for a romantic relationship, personal & spiritual warfare, etc.  Honestly, I wouldn't change a thing.  Yes, as a result of these struggles I am worn and tired, however I have learned how to find the indescribable peace that my Jehovah Shalom offers to those who follow Him.

How does one find that peace?  True peace cannot be found except in a right relationship with God.  I see so many situations – even in my own family and friends – where people disregard that we are to live selfless lives and that we must die daily to our self and live for Christ’s glory alone.  As a result, they live their lives selfishly with little or no communication to their God and then when disaster strikes – they are desperate and longing for a peace that only God can give.  The apostle Paul writes, “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything is worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things.  The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me practice these things; AND THE GOD OF PEACE SHALL BE WITH YOU.” (Philippians 4:8-9)  Once we focus our minds on the things of God as opposed to the things of this world then God gives us a peace that does not alter, regardless of our circumstances, because the peace He gives is a permanent resident, dwelling inside us.

When the fierce waters of doubt are rising and the violent waves of fear are crashing in….where do you run?  For so long I ran into the arms of those around me, or I tried to stay afloat and figure things out on my own because I was too stubborn to cry out for help. 

 The prophet Isaiah wrote, “For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)  There He is…Jesus….our Prince of Peace, our Jehovah Shalom.  Jehovah Shalom - who reconciles us to God.  Jehovah Shalom - who enables us to stand before the darkness of this world without consuming fear or worry.  I urge you, when your world seems to be caving in and everything is crumbling around you…run into the arms of Jesus Christ….our Prince of Peace…Jehovah Shalom. Therefore, when the oceans are rising and the waves are violently crashing down on you...you will not drown in sorrow or despair...but Christ will pick you up and bring you to His waters of peace...into His still waters.

“Those who love your instructions have great peace and do not stumble.” (Psalm 119:165)

Joyfully HIS,

Whit