My favorite days are those in which I feel a sense of inner peace—when my family is doing well and all is well with the world.  Maybe that’s also true for you. Peace is something we all desire. It’s hard to function and flourish in life without it.

Just what are the components of a peaceful life? 

First and foremost, we must live with spiritual security. We need to know that our life is in the hands of someone greater than us—namely, Jesus Christ. When we believe in Jesus, and accept His gift of forgiveness for our sins, we can be sure that we’ll spend eternity in heaven with Him. We no longer need to fear death, and we have Holy Spirit power for this life, as well! Do you know Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior? Would you like to? Follow this link to find out how: How to Become a Christian

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” Romans 6:23 (NKJV)

Secondly, a peaceful life requires that we live at peace with others. In order for this to happen, we must live in a constant state of forgiveness towards others. We must forgive quickly, persistently and joyfully. Forgive, even when others offend again and again. Forgive, even when the offender hasn’t asked for forgiveness. Understand that a heart of unforgiveness can lead to bitterness, anger, resentment, broken relationships, and sometimes even health issues or more dire consequences for us.

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God, in Christ, forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32 (NKJV)

Next, in order to have peace in our lives we need to live with a sense of purpose. As believers, we inherently have a purpose—to glorify Him and to make Him known. Part of that mission is serving and loving others in His name. Have you found a place to volunteer or to use your gifts and talents in your church or community? You are uniquely gifted to do so. If you are not currently serving, ask your pastor or a Christian friend for ideas. By the way, if you are in the mommy phase of life, there is no greater purpose than raising your children to know and love Christ. Don’t be ashamed of giving yourself fully to that endeavor.

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NKJV)

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV)

In addition, to live a peaceful life we must give our worries and concerns to God. He cares. He wants us to come to Him in prayer. He doesn’t want us to carry the burden of worry. His Word says so. I don’t know what I would have done if I hadn’t been able to pour my heart out to the Lord over burdens and heartaches I’ve had in my life—whether about a family member, a health concern or a world event. Peace and worry cannot coexist.

“Come to me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (NKJV)

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”               Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)

Lastly, we can only have peace when we can live above and beyond the turmoil of this life. That includes, natural disasters, world events, the political climate and the ever-eroding culture. As believers, we certainly want to make an impact where we can— voting, volunteering, signing petitions, possibly even marching for a cause if God so leads. But, in order to have peace, we must realize several things: This world is not our home (heaven is), God is ultimately in control, my life and my children’s lives are in His hands, God wins in the end.

“And the Lord, He is the one who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8 (NKJV)

“As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people from this time forth and forever.” Psalm 125:2 (NKJV)

My prayer for you is that you will live in the beautiful, life-changing peace of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I hope this post has given you something to think about and maybe some areas on which to focus. Go and live in peace, my friend.

As Jesus said to the disciples after His resurrection, before He returned to heaven:

“Peace, I leave with you, my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27 (NKJV)