Firstly, true peace exists even during troubles. Secondly, true peace brings joy in trials. Thirdly, true peace comes by trusting God in the storms of life! Finally, true peace exists because we can cast our cares on God because He cares for us!
Consider what we read from Philippians 4 about true peace:
‘Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, take pleasure in Him]; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit [your graciousness, unselfishness, mercy, tolerance, and patience] be known to all people. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God. And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours]. ‘
Philippians 4:4-7
With God, we are able to take every thought captive and make them submit to Jesus. So let’s turn to God’s Word to see how we can hold tight to true peace through Him!
Consider these ways to apply God’s Word and live with true peace:
True Peace when you trust in the Lord:
“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” (Isaiah 26:3, NLT). True peace comes from trusting in God’s faithfulness, even in the midst of trials and challenges.
True Peace when you give thanks in all circumstances:
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NIV). Practicing gratitude can help shift our focus from our problems to God’s goodness and faithfulness.
True Peace when you cast your cares on God:
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV). Instead of carrying our burdens alone, we can surrender them to God, who is able to sustain and comfort us.
Receive God’s peace:
“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, NIV). Jesus offers us peace that transcends our circumstances and is not dependent on external factors.
Fix your thoughts on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy:
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:8-9, NIV). Focusing on positive and uplifting thoughts can help us experience God’s peace even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
So let’s be the dads who can walk in God’s peace because we fix our thoughts on the right things. Let’s be the dads who turn to God in order to receive His peace! Be thankful because of your relationship with God and what He is and has and will do in and through your life. Don’t try to go it alone, put your hope and trust in God rather than trying to lean on your own understanding, acknowledging God in all you do so that He can show you the path to take in peace.
Today’s Verse of the Day:
In peace [and with a tranquil heart] I will both lie down and sleep, For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety and confident trust.
Psalms 4:8 AMP
Ever found yourself having a hard time going to sleep because your mind is racing and you can’t slow it down? Have you ever tried to cast those cares upon God because He cares for you? Consider what today’s verse of the day is telling and speaking to us about having true peace and a tranquil heart. There is but one place for us to be able to know we dwell in safety and confident trust and it is in God alone! So let’s be the dads who are able to live our lives with true peace that provides us with a tranquil heart that allows us to both lie down and sleep!
You may be reading today’s verse of the day and wondering to yourself, how can I apply this to my life and more specifically my life as a dad?
Ways to apply today’s verse of the day towards being the dads our wives, kids, and world need us to be:
- Trust in God’s protection: Believe that God is your ultimate source of safety and security, and teach your family to rely on Him as well.
- Pray for peace: Pray with your family for God’s peace to reign in your hearts and minds, especially during times of trial and trouble.
- Practice gratitude: Encourage your family to give thanks for the good things in their lives, even when facing difficult circumstances.
- Rest well: Prioritize rest and sleep as a way to recharge and maintain physical and emotional health.
- Stay calm in the face of adversity: Model a peaceful and calm demeanor during stressful situations, showing your family that it’s possible to remain composed in the midst of chaos.
- Speak words of peace: Use words that are calming and reassuring, and avoid words that cause anxiety or fear.
- Seek wise counsel: Seek guidance and support from trusted mentors, pastors, or friends when facing difficult situations.
- Practice forgiveness: Model forgiveness and reconciliation with others as a way to maintain inner peace and harmony.
- Take care of your health: Prioritize exercise, healthy eating, and other self-care practices to maintain physical and emotional well-being.
- Be present: Spend quality time with your family, showing them love and support through your presence and attention.
