Peace in the Midst of Challenges, Changes, and Chaos

Hello All-
Yesterday's sermon was so incredibly inspiring!! We are currently doing a 9 part study which is entitled "Putting the Pieces Together". Yesterday was about PEACE!

The pastor began his sermon reminding us that worry and anxiety lead to fear, and don't allow peace to encompass our hearts. He then continued with, "frustration robs us, and blocks the holy spirit from bringing us peace". Wow, these statements are such good reminders to us as Christians....that God wants us to unload these frustrations, worries, and anxieties unto Him. I believe that it is an ongoing process, it takes time, faith, trust, prayer, etc. It's not just saying the words, it's reaching deep down into your heart... honestly, and whole-heartedly surrendering all of it to God. I am reminded of a hymn entitled, "I Surrender All". The pastor reminded us that He truly wants us to surrender EVERYTHING to Him. We have to rely on our Faith and trust in God to do so.

Romans 5
1Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

Galatians 5:22-23:
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

We are to be peach-makers, aim for peace, strive for peace, and encourage peace, in our own lives and other lives that we touch.

Isaiah 48:22:
22There is no peace, saith the LORD, unto the wicked.

There is no doubt that each and everyone one of us experiences some type of hurt at some point. Sometimes it becomes too much to handle and we can't see past the hurt. I think that there is so much wisdom in knowing that we can give it to God.

Ephesians 5:18:
18And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

As a final thought, if we don't have peace with God then how are we to have peace in our lives?

Philippians 4:6-7:
6Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
7And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Our hope is that everyone who reads this will seek peace through God, and unload all of your troubles and worries to Him! =)
Have a great week.