As an introverted writer, there is nothing I like more than sitting at my desk, typing away in perfect peace and quiet. As I do, I can look out my window at the trees and shrubs and beyond them to the sky. I hear birds chirping and the occasional bark of a dog, yet these sounds are pleasant and somehow reassuring. In these moments, I feel so blessed—and spoilt! I have peace, both inside and out—and I am so grateful for God’s gracious hand on my life.
Yes, sometimes that outer peace of mine disappears when little grandchildren arrive and run around excitedly or when we mind them at their house until mum or dad finish work. Sometimes too, we have visitors for meals or for a longer period. Sometimes I venture out to speak at various events or promote my books, which always involves much relating to others. And each week I attend church and happily mix with the family of God there. I also meet with others one-on-one for coffee and truly value these intimate conversations. Yet afterwards, I scuttle back home to my place of peace, where I sit and process everything—and thank God again for my lovely, quiet space where I can reflect and be refreshed in my spirit.
But sometimes that inner peace of mine can also disappear, which is much more alarming. Sometimes I take my eyes off God and refuse to listen to the Spirit’s voice, urging me to be still, to become aware of God’s presence in me and around me, to remember God knows all about my issues and those facing anyone near and dear to me, as well as those in the world at large. Sometimes I choose to worry so much about this and that, instead of handing it all over to God. Sometimes I fret over situations when it is way beyond my ability to sort it all out for those involved. Sometimes I foolishly ignore that peace God is holding out to me with such love and grace and instead decide to cling onto that deep turmoil within.
How important it is in these times to stop and read again Jesus’ words to his disciples—and to me:
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
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
And how important the Apostle Paul’s words are too:
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. Philippians 4:6-7
Whatever is happening in your life right now, may you too be able to turn to God, be still and rest in that peace only God can give.
The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you, the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26
Jo-Anne Berthelsen's Blog 
Thank you Joanne, that was just what I needed to remind me to turn to the Lord and give the day to Him this morning.
Thanks for your comment, Ruth. We so easily forget, don’t we, that God is right there with us and longs to speak that peace deep into our hearts, whatever is happening in our lives? God bless!
Lovely Joanne, I treasure my peace also, but it is easily lost when I turn my eyes away from Jesus, however inadvertently? spell check needed lol Have been in trouble since leaving Restore – have invited a few friends to come to me to “see” and pray. Praise God He is good all the time.
So lovely to hear from you, Kathie–thanks so much for your comments. I’m really sorry to hear you have had trouble in the last little while though, but very thankful you have friends to call on who will come and pray and be discerning. We sure need one another, don’t we? Not sure if you know, but we now live at Constitution Hill Village at Northmead and are very happy here–we are too busy though doing lots of ministry stuff to get very involved in the village as yet! God bless and keep you in that place of peace, Kathie.