Protect Your Peace

As I was praying about what God wanted me to talk about this week, He put this idea of protecting our peace on my heart.

When I think about peace, there’s this abundant amount of comfort that comes over me because I know that peace can only come from God.

I truly believe that we all want peace at the end of the day. We may think we want more money, that perfect relationship, that fancy new car, or dream job, but ultimately peace is what stills our soul.

It’s what God offers us and is what quiets our minds to be able to focus on Him and receive His blessings and direction.

Now, if peace is so important and we all desire it, then why is it so easy to sacrifice our own peace while benefiting someone else’s?

This is a question I ponder and I think is the reason God has prompted me to talk about this.

One thing I struggle with is allowing my peace to get disrupted because I am afraid of saying no. Don’t get me wrong, serving others and loving them well is what we are called to do, but sometimes God has other plans for you at that moment.

Let me give an example. I suffer from chronic migraines on a daily basis. Sometimes, I even get multiple migraines per day. When they come on, I feel pretty dysfunctional. I’m in extreme pain, I get blurred vision, and I need to wrap my head in ice until it feels numb. I have gotten better, but in the past, I have said yes to countless things other people wanted me to do when, in all reality, I should be home taking care of me.

I remember I used to feel so annoyed with myself. I would think I wasn’t strong enough to say no, or that I was being a mean person by saying no. But inside my soul I felt God being like, “Go lay down!!! I know what’s best for you!” It was as if God Himself was trying to protect my peace and I was fighting Him - arguing that I should go do this one thing because it would make that person happy.

I am by no means perfect at this, but over the years, I have learned that taking care of yourself will always put you in a better position to love and serve others well. Let me just tell you, when I am suffering from a migraine, I am not fun to be around! (Just ask my family!) But by saying no when I need to, I am able to get the rest I need, refill my cup, and ultimately protect my peace.

I want to encourage you to do the same! Next time you feel pressured to say yes, but God is pumping the brakes, listen to that and let Him refill your cup, too.

Remember, Jesus is the Prince of Peace, the King of Kings!! He is here to help us know when to say yes and when to say no. Our job is to be obedient and confidently follow Him wherever He may lead us.

Journal Prompt:

When I am at peace, I feel loved, secure, and joyful. How do you feel when you are at total peace? What things in your life are taking away from your peace today?

Ref: Philippians 4:4-9, Proverbs 4:23