The Blessed Gift of the Peace of God

Heavenly Father, we praise, bless, and adore you for many reasons. Today, in particular, we rejoice in your commitment to give us peace—to center, settle, and encourage our hearts. You never pressure us just to ‘”get over it,” “buck up,” or, “grow up.” You welcome us in our weakness, confusion, and frailties. Thank you for being so kind.

In Paul’s words, you promise peace “at all times and in every situation.” To know that you are with us and for us, and to know that you love us and are in control of all things… that is what we need more than anything else. So, Father, here are some of the “every situations” for which we ask you to grant us a fresh measure of your peace.

Grant us peace in this season of government shutdown, and the national drama we’ve been sitting in for the past year. Your sovereignty is our sanity, your kingdom is our homeland, and Jesus’ return is our longing.

Grant us peace in restlessness not attached to any specific story. Sometimes we’re just groaning inwardly and waiting eagerly for the Day of all things new. Sometimes old wounds gain fresh power. Sometimes fear mutes our faith.

Grant us peace, as we trust you with the hearts and futures of our children. No matter the age of our kids, we still try to write their stories. Forgive our unbelief and free us from “meddling.” Grant us every-season-grace to love, accept, and encourage them.

Grant us peace, as we face looming decisions. Free us from the foolish notion that there is only one right choice to make. Actually, there is only one right God to trust, and that is you. Lead us, Father, as we lean into you. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ strong and tender name.