Pursue Peace

Do you live at peace or is your mind wild and full of worries? What if I tell you the answer depends more on you and your decisions than on anything that happens to you?

We all face circumstances in our lives we’d rather not deal with. Worrying starts when we let the “flesh” take over. We become controlled by our appetites and guided by our feelings and senses. But when our mind is guided by the Spirit, it bring us peace.

The question is which one will you obey? The mind of the flesh leading to worries and sin? Or the mind of the Spirit which brings a quiet, peaceful mind? Trying to get what you want from God can lead to frustration. Embracing God's will rather than your own and relying on the Spirit closes the door on your worries.

Refuse to worry. Pursue peace. Follow the mind of the Spirit.

Keep your mind “on things above” rather than on the flesh (Colossians 3:2). Let the Spirit lead your thoughts so that they become pure and peaceful. Your perspective will shift from hand-wringing to expecting God's good and perfect will to be done. As you get into the habit of doing this — living by faith and trusting in God — peace will flood your heart. Isn’t that what you really want?

Heavenly Father, I place my burden at your feet. Help me to follow the Spirit instead of my own mind so I can have peace. In Jesus’ name, I pray this. Amen.

Go Deeper — Write down “Refuse to worry. Pursue peace” on a card or piece of paper. Carry it with you today, and when worry begins to creep in, take it out and read it, asking the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts as you entrust all your worries to God.

Read Further — Many people struggle with anxiety. If you do, read how you can Declare Victory over Anxiety.