As I was doing some housework this morning, I heard this phrase go through my head:
Precious peace.
As we all know, 2020 has been a year unlike any other. Being able to remain steadfast and keep one’s peace of mind in the midst of the “crazy” is not only a challenge for many of us at times, but also a privilege.
After I heard the above phrase, I looked up the meaning of the word precious.
Precious (adj.)—(of an object, substance, or resource) of great value; not to be wasted or treated carelessly
Do you view peace as a valuable commodity? One that is to be guarded at all costs?
I’m specifically speaking of your peace of mind, that inner sense of calm and tranquility; the knowledge that you’re held by a loving Father Who is deeply committed to your wellbeing and Who holds the world in the palm of His hand.
Let’s do a quick self-assessment.
On a scale of 1-10, how peaceful are you right now? (Think of this in terms of your current day-to-day state of mind.)
(1 = “I’m totally freaking out. I can’t remember the last time I felt really peaceful.”
10 = “I’m totally at peace. I’m locked in and nothing is going to shake me.”)
If you’re anything less than a 10 and you’d like some tips to regain a sense of peace, read on.
I’ve been implementing these things in my own life. While I’m nowhere near perfect at this, I’ve found them to be a big help when I’m feeling overwhlemed.
1. Unplug!—I put an exclamation mark after this because I can’t overstate its importance. Turn off your phone or tv. I don’t know a single person alive right now who can consume large quantities of media and not be negatively affected (social or news.) If you feel it’s important to stay up-to-date on current events, please please give yourself a time limit.
2. Spiritual practices—prayer, worship, fasting, reading inspirational material (Bible or other). I’ve been thinking a lot of Matthew 4:4: Jesus answered, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'” The Word of God has sustenance within it; as His children, we have the privilege of hearing his voice. He wants to talk to you! If you’re feeling anxious, may I humbly suggest that perhaps you’re listening to a voice other than God’s voice.
3. Nourish your body/senses—this can be accomplished by the foods we eat, the activities we engage in, and the atmospheres we seek out. Pay attention to what fuels you and what drains you. Are you getting enough sleep? What kind of conversations are you engaging in (are they filling you up or riling you up)? Are you spending time in nature and enjoying the outdoors? Are you exercising or moving your body in healthy ways?
Other activities could include journaling, talking with a trusted friend, seeking counsel if you’re feeling stuck, writing out the things you’re thankful for, doing something creative, etc.
Whatever you choose to do out of the above list, pick something and then commit to doing it for at least a week, preferably longer. Make your health (mental, emotional, spiritual) a priority!
Finding and maintaining that place of peace is not just a frivolous exercise for those who have spare time on their hands (let’s face it, who has much of that these days!?!)
Peace is precious. It’s one of the gifts Jesus has promised us—freely, with no strings attached.
John 14:27: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
I’m praying for you today—that all anxiety would leave, that you’d be filled with an awareness of the nearness of Jesus, and that you’d find the best path forward to keeping your state of mind healthy and peaceful.
All my love,
