Peace and Contentment

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” Philippians 4:11

What does it take for peace and contentment to become a reality in our lives? By what means are we able to counteract the enormous amount of negativity that flows so freely in our world today?

During these challenging times in which we are living, many people are struggling in one way or another. Sometimes folks experience a domino effect and are left reeling in one or more areas—financially, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. There are financial struggles—gas prices so unaffordable for some that they have to walk to work; grocery prices elevated to the point that it poses a challenge for parents to put enough food on the table for their families; scarcity of some foods; baby formula shortage; horrible images of a war that shouldn’t be. All around us we see so much hate, disagreement, and unrest. These are challenges we wouldn’t have imagined not long ago.

Having peace and contentment in the face of uncertainty or adversity is not easy, is it? Some days, it seems that a peace-filled day isn’t possible. I’m going to be transparent and admit that I’ve had days when I struggled with this very thing. I’m sad. I’m discouraged. I’m afraid. I’m tired. But as I read God’s Word and continue to place my faith and trust in Him, my anxieties decrease, allowing peace and contentment to increase. Simply put, I know that God is in charge and His purposes are being carried out, even if I can’t see the BIG picture. So I trust Him! For me personally, faith in Jesus is where my mind and strength are renewed, thereby allowing me to look at life in a more positive manner.

Faith is a BIG deal! It’s trusting the unknown to a known God. Our Creator. The One who loves us more than we can imagine and who knows our every thought, our strengths, and our weaknesses. Faith is the “substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1) Faith is knowing that God loved us so much that He sent Jesus to die for our sins—a debt He didn’t owe and one we could never repay. (John 3:16)

My friends, if you’re experiencing feelings such as I’ve described above, I want you to know that God has not brought you this far to leave you. He promises that very thing in His Word, more than once! Be encouraged today that He’s at work 24/7 on your behalf and on behalf of the world.

I pray that each of you are experiencing His peace and contentment today. If you’re not, spend a few minutes reading the Psalms or the book of John. Talk to God. Listen for the still small voice to guide you in all truth. Spend some time listening to Christian music. Then go about your day knowing that He is near and is working out all things for your good and His glory.

Prayer: Dear Father in Heaven: Today, we praise and thank You for creating us and calling us to be Your children. We know that it is only You who can bring the peace and contentment to our hearts for which we long. We pray that You would heal our broken world. Forgive us where we’ve failed You. Bring us back to Your ways and help us to live accordingly. Thank You for Jesus, who came so that we might believe, accept, and live for Him. Help us to tell others about the wonderful gift of eternal life You offer through Jesus. We love You and give ourselves and all that we are to You this day. I pray these things in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.