A DEFINING QUALITY

 

JULY 6, 2023

Colossians 3:15 

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Have you ever considered that a hurried soul is seldom at peace? It’s as if they are on opposing ends of a spectrum. Hurried suggests a frantic, frenzied, feverish pace. Peaceful is much more static. Serene. Calm.

Hear this Abby McHugh quote: “God doesn’t call you to a life you don’t have time for.”

“God doesn’t call you to a life you don’t have time for.” Reflect on that for a moment.

Let me remind all of us that as followers of Jesus, we are called to peace. That’s what today’s reading reminds us of. It really is one of the most defining qualities of those who walk most closely with Jesus, “an indescribable peace.” That is His precious gift to those who are willing to come near to him again and again. To slow things down and deliberately plan space for God.

It is my prayer that we would be included as those who walk, live, and abide in God’s peace. And when we are tempted to be hurried, may the Spirit of God gently remind us of the blessing that is ours when we give up speeding and rushing through our days. 

Do you remember way back to last Thursday’s devotion we said “Jesus invites us to live in the space of the unforced rhythms of grace. Jesus wants us to live free and lightly. Jesus invitation is "Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it."

“The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Amen.