The Secret to peace

The Secret to Peace 
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Philippians 4:12, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” I’m drawn to Paul’s powerful testimony here. He says that he has “learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.” The secret Paul refers to is having peace, joy, and contentment that is independent of your circumstances. Paul learned how to hold onto his peace. Every day we have the option to choose how we will respond to any and every situation in our lives. We are free to choose joy or sadness, anger or acceptance, fear or courage, hope or despair. Paul encourages us to choose peace in spite of our circumstances.
 
Looking back on my life, I see that I spent decades in a state of “emotional highjack” controlled or led by my emotions. I allowed my circumstances to determine my mood, thoughts, actions, and decisions. I give God thanks and praise that the Holy Spirit has shared Paul’s secret with me. As I have grown spiritually it has become easier to control my emotions, to set my mind, heart, and spirit on God’s Word, His promises, and to live by faith. I have learned to look beyond immediate situations and say, “I don’t care what it looks like, I refuse to walk in fear, doubt, and unbelief.” I’ve learned to encourage myself by going deeper into God’s Word. I’ve resolved that I will not be moved by the way things appear. In the midst of trial, I call forth Gods presence and divine intervention and give Him thanks for promising to never leave or forsake us.
 
Are you struggling with your circumstances? Are you allowing your emotions to lead you to a place where you begin to doubt God’s Word and His promises? Do you believe the facts of your situation more than you believe God’s Word? I encourage you to trust God and His grace. Hold onto your peace, joy, and contentment no matter what happens! Lord, thank you for your grace that sustains us each day. Jesus, your love and grace hold the secret of peace, let us trust in you and hold fast to our peace, joy, and contentment no matter what.

May the peace of God, which passes all understanding be with you always!
 
Fr. Greg+

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