Barriers To Peace
Friday March 31, 2017
The quest for peace in our souls begins at birth. As babies, we long for our mother’s comforting arms, as children we yearn for happy experiences, and as adults we strive to find success and fulfillment through relationships and jobs. These pursuits are desirable–but they only give temporary peace.
Those who love your instructions have great peace and do not stumble. (Psalm 119:165 NLT)
Lasting peace cannot be attained through our own efforts. Lasting peace is a gift from God. Just as a clear mountain stream refreshes and nourishes the wildlife that come to drink, God wants to nurture our hearts with peace and joy. There is no greater peace than that which is available through Jesus Christ. God’s peace washes over us like a cool stream of water–soothing our heartache, washing away doubt, and cleansing the wounds of sin and pain. Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:1 NIV)
What causes disruption to our peace with God? Barriers to peace are erected by our habitual sin, unresolved guilt, and unforgiveness toward others. When we blame God for difficult circumstances or decide to live in a state of rebellion against God’s truth, we add to the barrier. We strengthen the barrier and invite anxiety and worry into our lives when our minds are occupied with negative, nagging, and unproductive thoughts. Therefore, we must learn to recognize and replace negative thought patterns and actions and pursue peace in all our ways.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 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 14:1, 27 NIV)
We will experience the peace we long for when the barriers are removed.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, please expose anything that may be hindering me from receiving the peace that only You can give. I want to listen with an open heart and receive and act upon what You show me today. Amen
©2017 Partners in Hope
More information on this and other related topics @ www.partnersinhope.ca/resources
Audio for Barriers To Peace
Recent Meditations
Giving Hope
Partners in Hope is supported wholly by our friends and community. We are thankful to everyone who partners with us to help bring hope to the discouraged, hurting, and hopeless.