Search for Peace

This week, we are exploring what it means to be intentional in your search for peace. Take a moment and begin with this simple prayer.

Heavenly Father, thank You for all You have done for me. Help me to always remember the many blessings I have had over the years, and when things get rough, to focus on You and my current blessings. I pray You point me back to Your word in all circumstances. Thank You for Your inexplicable peace. I pray the dear soul reading this today finds Your peace, too. Amen.

Psalm 34:14 (NLT)  
14 Turn away from evil and do good.

     Search for peace, and work to maintain it.

What comes to mind when you contemplate these two sentences?

In just a few short words, we are provided clear instructions on how to live our best lives. Do good, stay away from the bad, find peace, and keep the peace.

David teaches us the importance of the fear of God. Now, fear here isn’t the adrenaline overload type of fear that may come with being involved in a traumatic encounter. Fear of the Lord is simply to be in awe of Him. Our reverence for Him will then affect our actions and words.

What comes to mind when you think of behaving righteously? Take a moment to reflect on the last time you fell short when attempting to avoid conflict.

God made us in His image (Genesis 1:28). We are to imitate Him and keep His commandments. Do you recall a time when you acted as a peacemaker? Are there times when you have been a troublemaker? Journal as you reflect and identify peaceful verses troubled responses during specific situations. What worked? What could you have done differently to behave righteously?

We are to be humble and compassionate with others, and we are to bless those who curse us and pray for our enemies (Matthew 5:43-48). Following Jesus and living this way is often difficult. I’m still working on the praying for my enemies concept. However, when I do follow through, a peace comes over me. I hate to admit this, but transparency in this life is important. We are all sinners, and no one has their life perfectly together. Sometimes I even begin praying simply out of spite. Each time, God wrangles my brain back in, sets my thinking straight, and gives me His unexplained peace. I challenge you to regularly pray for you enemies. When you do, discuss your experiences with a friend. Then, make it a priority to teach these principles to our young people to raise a generation in harmony with one another.

As we close today, spend some time asking God to bring you peace.

Ask Him specifically what changes you may need to make to behave righteously in His eyes.

I pray you are intentional in your walk with God this week. Don’t fight evil with evil. Seek peace, receive peace, and keep the peace.