The Calm That Comes

Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. – (James 3:18, NIV)

People who work for peace in a peaceful way get the blessings that come from right living. – (James 3:18, ERV)

The seed that flowers into righteousness will always be planted in peace by those who embrace peace. – (James 3:18, VOICE)

Peace is not necessarily the absence of chaos, but it is a calm that comes, despite what is going on, through the loving kindness of Christ. To be a peacemaker, we must choose to communicate calmly, and exercise self-control in all that we say and do. One of the definitions of peace found in dictionary.com, defines peace as: freedom of the mind from annoyance, distraction, anxiety, an obsession, etc.; tranquility; serenity. We are all a work in progress, and our freedom of the mind from these things seems to be proportional to our dependence on God. When we are actively and routinely seeking Him, His calm comes and peace prevails, regardless of our circumstances. As a middle school teacher, I am well aware of what peace feels like, despite the chaos. It is not the absence of annoyances or distractions, but it is the freedom to not be worn down, overwhelmed or controlled by them. There are times that they need be corrected or redirected, but when done in a calm and peaceful manner, it is better received and more quickly made right than if I allow frustration to get the better of me and give anger a foothold. May we ever seek the Lord to be our peace in every circumstance, and rely on Him to hold us in His hands, for it is in our awareness of His presence that we know and experience true peace, as relying on Him is right living.

The Lord is true peace,

in Him, we’re set free;

calm in the chaos,

our Help in our need.

Anxiety goes,

and peace finds a way;

to settle our hearts,

and make new, each day.

O Lord, please lead us,

to ever trust You;

for You are the way,

that peace is made new.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are our perfect peace, not matter what surrounds us. Thank You that as we trust and rely on You, You show us the calm that comes in knowing and following You. Forgive us for the times that we have allowed our circumstances to get the better of us, or have ignored the direction You have shown us to experience Your peace. Teach us to trust You more, for You show us what is good and right, and You provide peace that surpasses our understanding. Lead us to love as You love so that many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we seek You to lead us to live right and rely on You to be our perfect peace in all things and at all times. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You. – Isaiah 26:3