Ever find yourself in a situation where you’re struggling for peace in the midst of chaos? I remember a time some 20 plus years ago when I was sitting in the dentist’s chair getting a root canal and crown. Now if you’ve ever had that done you know how long that process can be…especially back in the day. It requires a lot of patience to sit still for x-rays and then again while the orthodontist drills down and files and prepares the tooth structure for the crown. Then a dental assistant will come and fill your mouth with a lot of goop to take Impressions both for the permanent crown and again for a temporary crown to go home with that day. Lastly, and often 2-4 or more hours later, you’ll get the temp crown put on so you can leave before the numbness is completely gone. That particular day, some 20 plus years ago, the music playing was quite loud and “jumpy/bouncy” and I remember how greatly I was struggling to relax. I said a very short and silent prayer for PEACE and was reminded so sweetly by the Lord, in such a gentle way, that my peace comes from within. My peace comes from the presence of Christ within me and not from external factors. No matter what situation we may find ourselves in we can always access HIS peace. Jesus said,  “Peace I leave with you” in John 14:27. He further said that the peace He gives is not like that of the world – temporary and conditional – but His peace goes beyond human reasoning and understanding and can dwell in us regardless of the chaos surrounding us.

This morning I spent 4 hours at the office of my orthodontist and dentist getting another root canal. I was reminded of the same comforting words that the Lord gave me years earlier, that HIS peace comes from within. This one, like the last, went just fine as I took it one minute at a time, very prayerful and aware of HIS presence within me securing my peace!

You’ve maybe heard it said that courage is not a lack of fear or anxiety but it is the ability to move forward in the face of that anxiety or fear. Well when we need Courage and we access the Peace of Christ it’s amazing what we can endure. Isaiah 26:3 reminds us that if we keep our mind stayed on the Lord He will give us His perfect peace as we trust in Him. Here’s a great Scripture about His peace from John 16:33
“… in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC)

Some of you may be thinking a root canal is no big deal in light of what you’re going through. What is it that is troubling you? What is it that’s causing you to shake or tremble in your boots? I assure you whether it’s a root canal, a financial challenge, a Health Challenge or perhaps discord with your neighbor or a family member, I’ve been through all that and then some… with HIS peace guiding me every step of the way.

A favorite Scripture I hold on to that reminds me not to tremble at the enemy but to walk in HIS peace is from Deuteronomy 20:3,4 “…Today you are on the verge of battle with your enemies. Do not let your heart faint, do not be afraid, and do not tremble or be terrified because of them; for the Lord your God is He who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.’” NKJV

The peace that we so desperately need is accessible within all those who belong to Jesus. Does Jesus Christ reside within you? If not, I urge you right now to pray a simple prayer that will forever change your life for the good… “Lord Jesus, I recognize that I’ve sinned and I am in desperate need of your presence within me. I accept you as my Lord and Savior. Guide me into the knowledge of all truth and deliver me from evil. I believe in You. Thank you Lord Jesus.”

If you prayed that prayer and need further encouragement don’t hesitate to contact me or your local Christian Church for continued support. Welcome to the family of God, and I sincerely pray that you enjoy a new sense of HIS peace!
Blessings,
Diane Malloy