Do you have a quiet place you go to be alone with God? A place where you pour out your prayers and praises and seek His counsel?
For me, during my early years as a Christian in high school and college, a local park and nearby beaches were my special places. I loved to sit and watch the tide roll in, reminding me of God’s faithfulness as I quieted my heart in His presence. Today, I have my comfy chair at home.
Quiet time with the Lord is imperative if we want to maintain peace in our lives. Jesus tells us in this life there will be trouble—but in Him we find peace.
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (John 16:33 NIV)
Seasons of trials, conflict, afflictions, and adversity are inevitable in this life. The world is a volatile and unpeaceful place, and tuning in to the news often inflames uncertainty. If we let it, anxiety and worry can easily consume us on every front.
A respected ministry leader and teacher I know once suggested that peace is our greatest spiritual weapon.
And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. (Romans 16:20 NKJV)
God’s peace is the only weapon that can work instantly, to crush Satan under our feet! Only by maintaining peace in our minds and hearts will we be able to hear from God when the storms come.
For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NIV)
The antidote to so many of our struggles is found in His presence. There is no greater habit we can incorporate into our lives than quiet time with Him in the secret place each day.
Silencing our hearts through prayer and His presence, God brings His Word to our remembrance, He gives us wisdom; He speaks His counsel into the depths of our hearts.
Jesus, the One who has overcome the world, is in you. Talk to Him often and share your life with Him. Let His peace rule in your heart—the wonderful peace found only in His presence.
John 16:33 is a favorite verse of mine. Thanks for a quiet reminder that in the busyness of checking things off the list, prioritizing time in His presence makes all the difference. Blessings to your day, Cheryl.
Such a refreshing message, Cheryl!
It reminds me of Isa 30:15 – “For thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: “In returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.”
Learning to be quiet in the Lord’s presence and enjoying his companionship really gives us strength to face whatever the day brings.
It such a joy to walk with Him and converse with Him. One additional joy I am incorporating into my life is having a conversation with the Lord as I am in bed ready to sleep for the night. We wrap up the day together, and He often shares His heart and perspective on what transpired, and some things to think about as I am going to sleep. What a blessed time this is together!
Sweet! We have a Lord and Savior who is always available. What a friend we have in Jesus!
Cheryl,
My mom just passed away on Saturday. We had a beautiful time of remembrance at her funeral with family and friends. My family left this morning and your post was so encouraging to me as I sat in my comfy chair for my quiet time. God’s peace is so very comforting and fulfilling to His children. Thank you!
My condolences to you Lois, on the loss of your mother. Yes, Jesus has given us the gift of peace (John 14:27), and it’s always within reach when we seek His presence. Peace and comfort to you and yours.