In the 1800s and through the 1960s, law enforcement personnel were referred to as Peace Officers. It was lawless to disturb the peace and tranquility in a public space, and these officers could levy fines or make arrests. I began wondering…what disturbs our peace? A few things quickly came to mind.
Unwise choices, perhaps made in haste or anger. The consequences can be more costly than ever imagined, crippling our peace.
The cares of this life – mundane or complicated. It makes little difference. They drain our reserves and fill the landscape of our vision with dread. Peace flees.
Anxiety is a peace crusher. It’s that nebulous, ill-defined unease that crowds our minds and nags our thoughts. Its voice is hushed but menacing. Anxiety can plague our rest and exhaust our daily routines. And the maddening part is there is nothing definitive to address. It’s just an anxious foreboding.
Disappointment can devour our peace. People disappoint. They can betray our trust and good will. God can disappoint!! He does those “God things” we don’t understand or that deeply hurt us. We are crushed and struggling, finding that our peace has taken leave.
What can we do? We, as His children, purchased by His blood, have, in Jesus Christ, our own Peace Officer. In fact, He is the Prince of Peace, who promised, “Peace, I leave with you, my peace I give you” (John 14:27).
We can surrender to our Peace Officer ALL those things that disturb the precious peace He provides.
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7
~Vickie Richey
Christ Fellowship