As we journey through Advent, the second week invites us to reflect on peace. True peace is not just the absence of conflict; it’s the presence of God’s unwavering love and assurance in our lives. This week’s reflection challenges us to consider where we seek peace and to realign our hearts with its true source.
Peace and Safety Are Found in the Lord
In a world that often promises peace through people, possessions, or circumstances, it’s easy to fall into the trap of misplaced expectations. We look to others to provide safety and comfort, forgetting that humans are inherently imperfect. No matter how trustworthy or “perfect” someone may seem, they are bound to falter. When we place all our hope and expectations in people, we set ourselves up for disappointment.
Isaiah 26:3 reminds us, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.” This verse points us to an unchanging truth: peace is not something we can manufacture or find in others—it is a gift from God that comes through unwavering trust in Him.
Placing our hope in God rather than in man frees us from the cycle of constant letdowns. While people can support and love us, only God can provide the perfect peace that sustains us through every storm.
Wherever You Run, Is Where Your God Is
When life feels overwhelming, we instinctively run to something for comfort—whether that’s a person, a habit, or even an unhealthy coping mechanism. But here’s the hard truth: wherever you run in times of trouble, that’s where your true god is.
If you find yourself constantly running to temporary fixes—social media, relationships, substances, or even avoidance—it might be time to pause and ask: Am I seeking peace in the right place? Psalm 46:1 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” True peace comes when we run to Him, not to the fleeting comforts of the world.
Reflect on this: where do you go first when things feel unstable? Do you turn to God in prayer and trust or look to external sources for a sense of control? Realigning your heart to run toward God is the first step to experiencing His peace.
Discomfort That Leads to Change
One paradox of peace is that it often begins with discomfort. God doesn’t bring us discomfort to harm us but to grow us. He uses moments of unease to push us out of the places where we’ve grown complacent, inviting us to step into a deeper relationship with Him.
Hebrews 12:11 says, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Sometimes, God allows us to feel unsettled so that we’ll turn away from the false comforts we’ve clung to and realign ourselves with His purpose.
On the other hand, the devil often lures us into comfort to keep us stagnant. He whispers lies like, “Stay here. You’re fine where you are. Don’t push yourself.” This false sense of security keeps us from growing, trusting God fully, and experiencing the deeper peace that comes from walking in obedience.
The Difference Between God’s Peace and the World’s Comfort
God’s peace doesn’t always look like the world’s idea of peace. The world equates peace with ease, comfort, and the absence of struggle. But God’s peace is something far greater. It’s the steady assurance that He is with us, even when life feels uncertain. Some months ago, I felt this deep sense of calm envelope my body. Immediately, it dawned on me that this is what is meant by “peace that surpasses all understanding”. My world was falling apart, yet I felt assured of what I was going through and what will come. Remember last week’s post on hope?
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14: 27
Unlike the world’s fleeting promises, God’s peace is unshakable. It’s the calm in the storm, the anchor in uncertainty, and the reminder that He is in control no matter what.
When we embrace God’s peace, we learn to rest in His sovereignty rather than striving for control. We stop chasing temporary comforts and start trusting in the eternal promises of a God who never fails.
Practical Steps to Embrace God’s Peace This Week
As you reflect on peace during this second week of Advent, here are some steps to help you align your heart with its true source:
- Identify Where You Run: When life feels overwhelming, take a moment to evaluate where you turn. Are you seeking peace in temporary comforts, or are you running to God?
- Invite God Into Your Discomfort: If you’re feeling unsettled, ask God to show you how He’s using this season to grow and refine you. Pray for His guidance and peace as you navigate change.
- Spend Time in His Presence: Peace comes from knowing God intimately. Dedicate time each day to prayer, worship, or reading Scripture. Let His Word remind you of His promises.
- Release Control: Trust that God’s plan is better than yours. Surrender your worries and ask Him to take control of the areas you’ve been trying to manage on your own.
- Reflect on His Faithfulness: Look back on moments when God has been faithful in your life. Let these memories strengthen your trust in His ability to provide peace in every circumstance.
Conclusion: A Peace That Surpasses Understanding
As we continue through Advent, remember that true peace isn’t something we can create or find in the world. It’s a gift from God, available to us when we trust Him. This week, take time to reflect on where you’ve been seeking peace and whether it’s aligned with the everlasting peace God offers.
When we run to Him instead of the fleeting comforts of the world, we find a peace that surpasses understanding. A peace that carries us through discomfort, change, and even life’s greatest uncertainties.
Reflection Questions:
- Where have you been seeking peace in your life?
- How can you invite God into the areas where you feel discomfort or unsettled?
- What steps can you take this week to run toward God instead of temporary comforts?
This Advent week, commit to running to God in every circumstance. Share in the comments how you’re finding peace during this season, and let’s encourage one another to embrace the true and lasting peace that only He can provide.
Until next time,
Abby
Authentically Abby 