Peace in Chaos

It seems so trite today to post a recipe as I normally do on Monday. The major devastation that the South Atlantic States, plus Tennessee have suffered this week has been heart-wrenching. The power of Helene has wiped out beautiful little towns, major bridges, Interstate roadways and homes. We’ve all seen images of the loss of electricity and water and the dramatic and sudden changes that have touched so many. It’s heartbreaking.

So rather than posting a recipe today, I’m writing this post to help myself (and hopefully you) to think truth. How are we to respond when we see such devastation and loss? What are we to think when everything is changing even moment by moment?

Our hearts and minds must turn to The changeless One – our God. Only the solid truth of God’s Word can calm the storm that wants to rage in our hearts. This is the comfort that can bring peace in the chaos.

You keep him in perfect peace
    whose mind is stayed on you,
    because he trusts in you.

Isaiah 26:3

This verse promises that God will “keep” or “guard” our peace when we keep our mind fixed on Him. I was considering this truth when a family situation occurred that perfectly illustrated what God does for us in our storms.

One of my grandsons was having his teeth cleaned and examined at the pediatric dentist office ( huge trial for any child!). His mommy texted to tell me that he was feeling a little anxious. Then she sent this picture that made my heart smile, not only for our grandson, but also for the truth that God brought to my heart.

While our little guy was at the dentist, his daddy was “standing guard” watching over and holding his son’s hand. That was enough to bring comfort to a frightened child. This is what God does for us! God guards our peace when we keep our mind on Him. When our heart is overwhelmed with fear, sorrow or anxiety, our mind must go to Christ. What do we think on?

• He is near.
• He is watching over my life right now.
• He is greater than my situation.
• He is making intercession for me!
• He knows what is happening and will use this for His glory and my good.
• He is coming for me, and all trials will then be ended. This is short-lived in comparison to eternity.

The list could go on and on. Think on His promises such as, “I will never leave thee.” Think about His life on this earth and what He endured for you. All the while you are thinking on these things you are NOT thinking about the trial, your anxiety or your fears. Peace comes. It floods your heart because you are trusting in Him.

Friend, if you have trusted Christ as your Savior, you have His peace at your disposal. You received it the moment you got saved. Meditate on the One who is guarding your peace. He’s right there beside you. Do you need to hold your Father’s hand and consider Him at this moment? You don’t have to fear. He is the peace in your chaos.