Advent Journey

Can We Find Peace in Trouble?

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9

Mary is a beautiful reminder and evidence that peace is possible yet a choice – and Jesus is the only source we can draw from to experience its Holy benefits.

It’s in our sinning nature to wrestle with worldly things as we search for peace, and it can be a warlike fight to hang onto it. It’s easy to let our lack of understanding and faith in God’s mysterious ways invite doubt and fear to consume us since we are only in control of what’s within us. Jesus was within Mary which is why her soul magnified Him and her spirit rejoiced.

As a survivor of abuse, neglect, and domestic violence, I once lived a life without peace. It can become normal to not feel or seek peace which only pushes it farther away. I would make choices that welcomed chaos because that felt more familiar. I was comfortable in distress, but peace made me nervous. Instead of waiting for the “shoe to drop”, I would force it to drop, and I started to believe that peace, joy, and love was illusive. This cycle can go on for eternity if not broken by falling on one’s knees toward the only Saviour, Jesus Christ who can bring us peace in challenging times. Mary said, “…His mercy is for those who fear Him from generation to generation.”

Jesus is always near, waiting for us to lean on Him when we weather storms like a pandemic, or when we cannot see what is ahead. He shows us the difference between His light vs darkness. And once you see His glory, you cannot unsee.

Can we find peace in trouble, and rest in the Lord? The answer is yes. And when we find peace, we must guard it like we do our hearts. Do not let anyone or anything steal your peace and remember where to find it. Be brave. Breathe hope like oxygen.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Jennifer Ménard-Shand
Founder & CEO, Staff Shop Inc.

Prayer:

Father God, oftentimes, peace is elusive. The more I long for it, the farther it feels. During these moments, when worry and anxiety overwhelm me, lead me to Your light so that I may find peace and lead others to it.

Application:

Invite Christ into the most stressful, worrying moments of your life. Remind yourself that He is there for you always. Consider what the Word says, “Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9