Itz Holistically Wholesome

Life is sometimes filled with chaos and confusion, and our world gets crazier daily. But does that mean that we cannot find peace amongst the chaos? I think not! We all desire some level of peace in our lives. As a Christian, one of my most earnest prayers is to experience perfect peace. After all, the Bible states, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). For more reason than one, this scripture has resonated with me. I found this verse when my life was spiraling out of control, and there was conflict and turmoil. When I focused on God and not on my problems, I experienced indescribable calmness. I am convinced that if I can attain a constant level of peace in Christ, my life will be that of tranquility and comfort, knowing that I am safely resting in Him who controls all things. So why worry, why fret about anything? Easier said than done, right? So why not do this in togetherness with God? Remember, with God, all things are possible.

In my quest to find perfect peace, I knew that I could not only desire it, but I had to do what was necessary to avail myself of this blessing. Unfortunately, too often, I have allowed myself to be distracted or disturbed by the action of others or situations. In other instances, the things that I allow to disrupt my peace are not even beneficial to me in any shape or form, nor can I change anything. The enemy of our souls will influence the actions of those closest to us, and without a second thought, we relinquish our peace and give in to chaos, quarrel, and confusion. One must be mindful of this vice on one’s journey to find perfect harmony.

Varieties of Peace

I have learned that peace comes in three main varieties; vertical, horizontal, and internal. Vertical peace has to do with our relationship with God and is the most important as it sets the framework for any other kind of peace we will experience. Horizontal peace has to do with our relationship with others. Finally, internal peace has to do with our relationship with ourselves. So let’s say that we are experiencing inner conflict with ourselves or maybe with others, then we may want to focus on both horizontal and internal peace. However, unless we have found peace with our creator God, who made us, we will make little or no headways with the other conflicts that continue to disrupt our lives.

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will also be” (Matthew 6: 19-21).

It may also be wise to revisit your purposes in life. Many believe that having a great marriage/relationship, money, power, comfortable life, and pleasure will give them peace, but this is not necessarily so. Just look around you, and you will see the demise, unhappiness, and conflict that embodies many successful people and has even led many to their death. Do not think God does not want us to live a happy, comfortable, and fulfilling life on earth. On the contrary, God wants the absolute best for us and is always willing to bestow these blessings. But the danger is that when we become solely driven by these earthly desires and forget what is most important to our peace, our lives will be chaotic and disruptive. The conflicts we face arise from the treasure we hold inside our hearts, which often is not what we need to gain peace. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will also be” (Matthew 6:21). It does not matter what position we have in life; our desire must be driven by an overwhelming need to know and live for God. Only then and only He can give you peace that passeth all understanding. In other words, put God first.

Be blessed!