3 minute read
Peace by Piece
God’s Power for Steady Rest in Daily Steps
written by Stephanie Fincher
Warmest greetings to the curious who may be intrigued by the title of this month’s article that will also guide you to future ones under the same name! You may have an idea about the play on words – nonetheless, I joyfully and humbly invite you to be refreshed and encouraged alongside me in exploring the activity of God who specifically fashions our everyday lives, one piece at a time. These purpose-driven moments, both big and small and tailor-made for each of us, are designed to teach us more about Him and draw us to His incomparable peace and supreme presence so readily available in any matter we face. Take a look at this incredible promise of God…
(Isaiah 26:3, NLT)
Notice the words keep, perfect, and fixed in this verse. To ‘keep’ is to hold on to; to be ‘perfect’ is to be flawless and complete; and to be ‘fixed’ is to be fastened to or not moving; to be still. Looking at those meanings in light of the verse is like saying, “God holds on to me and I will be complete (at peace) when I fasten my thoughts to Him and do not move them.” What a comfort! What a Savior!
So, how can we further apply such truth in evaluating the amount of real peace that we have (or don’t have)? In the fabric of every woman’s life, a story has been written or is being written from threads of experiences – some that are sweet and good to reminisce about, and some that are very painful. Each one has shaped our past to some degree and may have woven certain perceptions we hold today. Right or wrong, they are there, and they influence us. Some of these attitudes also bring stress, worry, and pressure that steal the calm and contentment that God longs for His children to receive and learn to daily walk in…those out-of-reach victories, major ones and pint-sized ones that seem unattainable or unavailable to us. Where is the access and how do we retrieve it? How do we uncover this pearl of steady composure when our mind (and circumstances) shout, “Anything but that”? Good news! We do have a defense – a powerful stop sign to interrupt faulty thinking by swiftly ushering in the restorative drink of God’s Word (the Bible). Sound too simple? Too “not-thinking-for-yourself” or “not standing-on-your-own-two-feet”? That is surely the cry we often hear today. Beloved reader, women can certainly be bold and smart, and lead with strength and favor. It is the poise and stability from the inside that we need when the pieces of chaos (or that grumpy cashier!) threaten to “undo” us. We need not live a repetitive cycle of defeat.
Maybe it’s time to consider (or return to) the supernatural way of peace given only by a mighty God who loves you intensely, unconditionally! He is generous and good and has everything you need. Yes, everything. Run to Him with your life’s pieces and allow Him to revive your heart with life-giving and peace-infusing truth found in the pages of His Holy Word. Make room for Him to speak to you personally and daily that He may strengthen you. It is surely a process, so hang in there. You can begin by holding this promise close today….“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.” (Psalm 29:11, NIV). Don’t delay – He eagerly waits for you to seek His peace for your pieces.
(Romans 15:13, NIV)
