Pathway to Peace

Over the past eight months, our minds and hearts have been thrown into a whirlwind of chaos and confusion.  We hear conflicting reports about government policies, health conditions, and finances.  It is hard to know what to believe when these reports conflict.  Now more than ever, friends and family may be on opposite sides of an issue.  This type of struggle can cause our minds and hearts to cry out for peace.
 
Today’s scripture gives us a clear pathway to a peaceful heart, mind and life.  Take your Bible and turn to Psalm 119: 161-168.  Underline the phrases as we address each action we should take to achieve peace. The steps may be worded differently in the translation you are reading, but each will point to a well-defined route. You may see more steps than we will cover, so open your heart to what God may have for you.

• “Stand in awe of your Word”: When I read God’s Word I receive comfort, challenge, and insight and I fell thankful and blessed. At first consideration, I assumed the phrase “stand in awe” meant that I should hold God’s Word in high regard and with respect. Yes, that is part of it, but when I delved into the meaning of awe as used in this context, I discovered that this phrase indicated “trembling” and “fear of violating God’s Word.” Yes, there are consequences of disobedience.  I don’t believe our first reason for obeying God is to avoid punishment.  We need to have a healthy fear, much like children fear, but love their parents. Children do not want to disappoint their parents with disobedience.  Fearfully stand in awe of God’s Word, and He will bring you peace.    

 

• “Rejoice”: The Hebrew word is sûws (soos) or sîys (sece).  Its root word means to be bright, cheerful, to “make mirth.” Despite the circumstances, we need to REJOICE! Let the love of God fill our hearts, remembering that those who believe and trust in Him are given the undeserved gift of life and salvation from our sin.  This gift does not waver with our feelings.  God does not take away the gift of salvation based on how we feel. It does not matter what is happening in our life; we can rejoice in the Lord.  We may not be able to rejoice about the circumstances, but we can rejoice that God is with us and will help us through those situations bringing peace in a storm.

 

• “Love God’s Law”:  Fall in love with Jesus and His Word again.  The whole chapter of Psalm 119 repeats several times the benefits of loving God’s Word.  Falling in love with His Word comes by memorizing, internalizing, and living God’s Word. These instructions are given throughout Psalm 119. Learning to love God’s Word deeply will bring peace and calm to our life.

 

• “Praise God”:  The definition of the words rejoice, and praise are very close. However, remember to praise God for who He is, not just for what He does for you and others. Give Him glory for being God, and praise Him for His attributes. (never changes, self-sufficient, all-powerful, all-knowing,  always everywhere, faithful and many more).

 

• “Obey God’s Word:” And yes, loving God leads us to obedience.  Doing what He asks of us proves the depth of our love of Him and His Word.

 
                If you feel unsettled and not at peace, review the steps laid out in Psalm 119: 161-168.

     Spend more time studying the calm of God’s Word than scrutinizing the chaos of the world.

“May the peace of God, that surpasses all understanding,
keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus.” 
Philippians 4: 7