"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things. The things which you have learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you." 

Philippians 4:8-9 [NIV]

Having a peaceful mind is so important.  Every day, our minds are in a battle for peace.   I don't know about you, but I seem to wake up on the wrong side of the bed more often than I'd like to admit.   I wish I could wake up like Snow White, gaze out my bedroom window, and sing my little heart out at the thought of a brand new day!  Unfortunately, my beginning thoughts run to something like this:  Did I lose any weight today?  How much can I get done at home?  Who will I worry about?  Will I feel loved?  Can you relate? 

Jesus understands our temptation to lose peace of mind.  He experienced hard things during his time on Earth like loss, betrayal, rejection, and more.  However, Jesus never got worried, depressed, or scared.  What's more amazing is that he knew in advance when he would have to suffer through something.  At the last supper before his death, Jesus told Peter, one of his twelve disciples, "Assuredly, I say to you that this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times." [Matthew 26:34, NKJV]  I don't know if I could handle knowing ahead of time if a friend would betray me or even worse, knowing exactly when I or a loved one would die.  

There is hope for us, who want to live like Jesus.   Below are some simple ways we can regularly have more peace of mind. 

• Read the Bible-  I understand that the Bible is a very long book and may be difficult to enjoy in some parts.  Hey, it's difficult for me to read through the entire book of Numbers.  There is interesting history but too many chapters on genealogies and laws for me to appreciate.  However, there is a great message throughout the whole Bible that brings peace to us all, which is that God loves us and is in charge of this world all the time. What a great thing to meditate on!
• Create an atmosphere of worship--I love all kinds of music, however, praise and worship music has become a constant playlist at home and in my car.  My mind is more at ease when I'm listening to my favorite worship bands like Bethel and Hillsong United on Pandora.  Certain worship songs move me to tears, make me want to lift my hands in praise, or lead me to sing from the top of my lungs though I know I have no talent as a singer.  Zero. Zip.  No matter how I respond to the music, an atmosphere of worship many times leaves me feeling more peaceful. 
• Open communication with God-- As much as I appreciate having certain people in my life like my  husband, my mom, and close friends to share my feelings and thoughts with, they really are not designed and equipped to bear all my burdens nor all the time.  I'm sure my husband doesn't want to hear me talk about my insecurities as a woman for the 1000th time though he has almost hit that mark!   If God has a special crown in heaven for husbands that listen to their wives whine about the same issues then my husband has one with his name on it!  Joking aside, our Heavenly Father can handle every care and concern we are able to give Him.  Unlike people, God has something to offer back in return, peace.

1.  Where does my mind wander throughout the day?

2.  Do I make time for God each day?  If not, how can I?

3.  Would my friends and family say I am a peaceful person despite my circumstances?

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that we have access to your holy presence through your Word, worship, and prayer.  Your presence blesses us and brings us peace.  Renew us from the inside out so that our transformation may glorify you and draw people closer to you.  In Jesus name, Amen. 

" You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in you. " [Isaiah 26:3, NKJV]

"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." [John 14:27, NKJV]

[title subtitle="Style Speaks: Renovate"][/title]

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