Hey there! So, I'm going to jump right in and get straight to the point. It's approximately 3am and I am inclined to share with you what's on my heart. Insomnia made its way over to my residence over the last fews weeks, so I've been spending most of my nights, reading, journaling, meditating, studying, and praying. After tonight's or this morning's (whichever you'd prefer) meditation I'd like to share with you all, three steps to peace.
1. Release worry
2. Pray
3. Give thanks
As I read and reflected on Philippians 4:6-7 NLT I began to understand that the promise of peace is given in exchange for releasing worry, praying, and thanksgiving. Check it out.
"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. THEN you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."
After rereading the passage numerous of times, its simplicity clicked.
Worrying = No peace
The absence of prayer = No peace
Lack of thanksgiving = No peace
The promise of peace demands each step. The THEN is extremely important in the scripture because it indicates quid pro quo, something given or received for something else. Give God your worries, time in prayer, and thanksgiving in exchange for his peace. Repeat after me. I cannot receive peace if I am anxious or full of worry. I cannot sit in silence and expect peace. I need a life full of prayer in order to receive peace. Peace requires gratitude and thanksgiving. My peace of mind is waiting on me to stop worrying, pray, and be thankful. 🧡
XOXOXO,
Rhonda Nikole
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