Today : Christ’s Peace
TODAY’S VERSE
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Colossians 3:15 (NIV)
TODAY’S THOUGHT
I love how the peace of Christ and thankfulness go together. Ever have someone, meaning well of course, try to get you to cheer up over something you weren’t ready to thank God for? People get uncomfortable around heartache and try to make the person suffering feel better. This is well intentioned, but not always successful. Perhaps that is why Paul wrote what he did. He knew from being in prison, shipwrecked, starving, stoned, left for dead and hunted down like a criminal that it was through the peace of knowing Christ and all His love and power that he was able to come to any semblance of giving thanks. And why did it matter? Because giving thanks is the key to returning to joy from painful emotions and circumstances. It is handing over the steering wheel to someone else more capable then us to drive when we are under so much duress. And so today, come to Christ. Come to Him who is able to give you peace even when thanksgiving seems so far away. His peace will comfort. His peace will sustain. His peace will return you to joy and a thankful heart.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Father, it is hard to give thanks in all things. I need Your peace, that passes all understanding, to rule in my heart. Come in the power of Your Holy Spirit and fill me now, fill me where I cannot fill myself. Bring peace and love to my heart even now and with that, I give You thanks, my God and my Lord.
AMEN
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION & MEDITATION
Christ’s peace rules in my heart
As you read the affirmation, how are you breathing? Is it shallow? Are you tense? Breathe deep and relax your face, neck and shoulders and say again, “Christ’s peace rules in my heart.” Close your eyes and say. “Peace” Picture Christ coming to you and let His calming presence sooth your mind and body. Whatever is stopping you from peace right now, give it to Christ. As you do say, “Thank You.” Again, “Thank You Christ for taking my burden and giving me peace.” Be still, and let the peace of Christ fill you. When you are ready say, “Christ’s peace rules in my heart.”