Peace in Chaos

Life can be challenging and chaotic at times which leaves us with feelings of disorder and loss of control. Every day we rush around going to work, school, appointments, running errands, activities, and more. Additionally, there are major life events that add to our already busy schedules. Because of this, we can struggle to find the time for things we should be enjoying like our family, friends and (most importantly) personal time with God. We are distracted and tempted by things that draw our attention away from the Lord. 

“The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” - Romans 8:6

This chaos can throw us off balance. I know from personal experience! Resources online will tell you to exercise, meditate, eat healthy, and do activities that are enjoyable for you. This is supposed to help you find your inner peace and these are all great tools. But what happens when these tools are not enough? It can lead to stress, stress can lead to anxiety, anxiety can lead to depression, and other ailments or challenges. Sometimes people resort to drugs or alcohol compounding the problem. 

When I was a teenager, I experienced anxiety and depression. Besides all the crazy thoughts and feelings that come naturally from being a teenager, I was haunted by a feeling of deep loneliness and sadness. I resorted to outside things in order to fill that void and feel peace on the inside. Nothing seemed to work. I struggled like this until I was a young adult. When I became pregnant with my daughter, that was the catalyst for me to seek help. 

So how do we find peace in a chaotic world? 

“The peace of God begins with God’s making peace between Himself and mankind. A true state of peace requires the unity of at least two parties. It also requires sacrifice as self-interest is subordinated to the good of the relationship. The peace between men and God is no different. God’s contribution was to send Jesus, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), to submit His life (Isaiah 53:5). When we repent and respond in faith to the gift of God, He saves us, and peace is born (Romans 5:1).” – compellingtruth.org 

We need to rely on the Holy Spirit and not things of this world. Get to know God and experience Him as our father, savior, healer, intercessor, and wonderful counselor. This helps us to cultivate peace within. 

Peace is one of the fruits of the Spirit. Even when things seem difficult, it provides an inner tranquility and contentment in those not so peaceful moments. 

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. - John 14:27

We need to draw close to the Lord and pray. Praying helps us to develop a stronger relationship as we rely on Him in all situations.

In the Bible, Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 

We need to meditate on scripture. Scripture give us wisdom and guidance. It provides us truth to call upon when we need encouragement and hope. 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. - Hebrews 12:1-2

Don’t let the things of this world pull you away from God and tear you down. Draw near to God, rely on the Holy Spirit, meditate on scripture, and pray. Don’t allow worry to rise from life struggles. Look to the positives and blessings that God has bestowed upon us. Relish every moment with the Lord. Include Him in all you do. Seek Him for each step, follow his lead, and allow His peace to wash over you. 

This is what I did. I went to counseling where I learned that I was loved by God. As simple as that may sound, I didn’t get that. I knew in my head, but not in my heart. Once I truly discovered that love of God, I found my peace. I started to trust Christ which helped me to experience peace amid my daily struggles. My struggles then turned to challenges, and my challenges turned to my peaceful and blessed journey with Christ. 

This doesn’t mean that every day is easy or that I don’t ever suffer from anxiety or depression, but I learned to place my trust in Christ and not things of this world. If we do this, then at night we can all rest knowing, “I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” - Psalm 4:8