Inner peace is one of those things that has been completely elusive to me for much of my life and it seems like I am constantly striving for it but looking in all the wrong places.
I try so hard to find something that simply wants to find me, if I’ll let it. The inner peace of the Holy Spirit in me. It comes by trust, not effort.
As I am learning to let go and be broken in the places that I am without trying to cover up and pretend like I have it all together, the resistance is fierce. The Devil wants me stuck and worried, but the Lord wants me peaceful and free. You know you are making progress when the fear comes on strong. It is by facing that fear that you can truly let go and allow it to shape you into who you are meant to be.
You’ve heard it before: trust the process. The outcome is out of our control, so what’s the use in worrying about it? I want to live each day in the comfort of knowing that my life is not in my own hands, but that there is a Maker and perfect Planner in control. I am empowered to choose my path, knowing He will open doors and opportunities as I go. That’s how I can have peace. That’s how I can finally trust.
There are so many different suggestions for how to achieve inner peace: meditation, yoga, prayer…etc. and these are all good things, but what it ultimately comes down to is the emptying of our hands and our hearts, so that we can be refilled in joy, hope, and purpose. There is always a breaking down before a building up.
In the middle of my journey I am frightened, confused, angry, and sad at times, but I know it is not the end. God has the victory and peace prevails.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. ~Collossians 3:15
rhythms of grace 