Prayer Produces Peace

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything

 by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, 

let your request be known to God; 

and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding, 

will guard your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ

 (Philippians 4:6-7)

What is troubling you at this moment?  Is it conflict in a relationship?  Difficulties in your job?  Problems with your health?  There are any number of troubling issues that confront us on a daily basis, which can rob us of our peace. 

We all crave peace.  Peace of mind.  Peace of body.  Peace of soul.  But the world in which we live cannot fulfill that desire.  Treaties are broken almost before they are signed.  The economy is shaky and uncertain.  Jobs can terminate overnight.  Relationships can dissolve without warning.  Our sense of security is vulnerable to daily fluctuation.

Only God offers peace that is not dependent on outward circumstances.  It is a sense of well-being that can endure the ebb and flow of daily living.  Just as the storms on the surface of the ocean do not affect the calm at the bottom of the sea, so do the storms of  life not diminish the serenity of our inner being when we are relying on God:

You rule the raging of the seas; when its waves rise, You still them

(Psalm 89:9)

You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You

(Exodus 26:3)

Do not be afraid.  Stand still, and see the deliverance of the Lord.

  The Lord will fight for you, and you shall be quiet

 (Exodus 14:13-14)

Call on Me, and I will answer you, and show you great 

and mighty things, which you do not know

(Jeremiah 33:3)

Lord, remind me often

 not to fear the storm that rages

 nor shout in its angry face,

 for You, the Power Who rules all nature, 

 mark the progress of my race;

to carry on as life permits me, 

leaving progress in Your hand;

for You’ll still the raging tempest 

when it fits Your loving plan.

When new fears and doubts assail me, 

turn my eyes once more to You;

                                                     reassured that You are with me 

                                                    and will bring me safely through.