For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 (NLT)
I’m betting peace isn’t a word a lot of us would use for this time of year. The chaos of all the gatherings, parties, shopping and endless to do lists can feel downright overwhelming.
[Tweet “What if we made the conscious choice to breath in the peace Jesus’ birth truly signifies?”]
It doesn’t mean we can check out of all the events and things we need to get done. But…it does mean we can invite peace to reside in us as we go through each day.
Yeah, I get it, this is SO much easier said than done. All too often we’re given some feel good, simplistic answer that in no way feels like it’ll work in our situation. Seriously, the chaos in our lives can feel completely overwhelming on a normal day. Add in all the extra’s of the Christmas season and peace can seem like a distant fairy tale.
I found spending time with the Lord before I enter into these chaotic times helps tremendously. Dig into His word. Write down scriptures wherever you can keep them in front of you. I’m a personal fan of post it notes. They’re literally all over my house and car.
So once we’ve covered ourselves with His word and asked for His peace to fill us let’s go out expecting it.
Now don’t think I must be living in some pollyanna world where life is super simple. I’m sure it looks different in many ways from yours but I’m well acquainted with chaos. Many people have used that exact word to describe my family.
So our holiday get togethers can get a little messy too. (If I was an LOL kind of person I would add it right here.)
We know there is the power of life and death in the tongue (Proverbs 18:21) so let’s not continue to speak turmoil into our situations. How about we take a different route the next time chaos presents itself?
Awhile back my sister shared with me a definition of “shalom” she had recently heard. It really stuck with me.
Shalom, the peace that devours the chaos of life.
It’s a complete peace which can only come from Jesus. A peace that passes all understanding.
I don’t know about you but I sure want that kind of peace! The peace Jesus offers us through His saving grace.
Many times the best I can do in a stressful situation is speak one word. When the chaos of the world feels like it’s closing in on me I simply say the name of Jesus out loud.
This may seem a little simple but that’s how I like things.
Try it with me will you? Take a minute to just breath and speak out our Savior’s name.
[Tweet “Invite Him not only into the Christmas season but beyond as well!”]
Study Guide Giveaway
So in continuing the fun with the blog anniversary I have another fun giveaway for you all!
The Broken Way Study Guide with DVD: A Daring Path into the Abundant Life
In this six-session video Bible Study, New York Times bestselling author Ann Voskamp takes us on a personal journey along the broken way.
Ann helps you dig deeper into living the abundant life with great insight and questions to work through. You don’t want to miss out on this one!
Enter below! Winner will be announced next Tuesday, December 13th.
I’m sharing this post with several other blogger’s at these Faith Linkups. I encourage you to check them out. If this post resonates with you and feel it would help others please feel free to share. Easy to share buttons below. ~Laura~
I love that definition of shalom – a peace that devours chaos – Yes! That’s the kind of peace that only Jesus can give. Blessings to you Laura! I’m your neighbor at #TestimonyTuesday.
Blessings to you as well Gayl!
Amen, Laura. Let us breathe in and live in His peace!
Yes, live in HIS peace. Blessings.
I am taking time to sit and be in God’s presence, whether reflecting on something that I am reading on spirituality or taking time to sit and pray and listen to music.
Such a great plan and so important. Blessings to you.
Love this!!
Thank you Nancy!
I am finding peace this Christmas season by keeping my eyes fixed on the Prince of Peace. He brings me peace amidst the chaos.
He does bring peace in the middle of chaos. Blessings!
Finding peace by Stay focus on God
Great plan Noelle! Blessings
Love how you said that peace is a choice for the season. Not a given.
Not always a simple choice but definitely a choice. Blessings
Laura-Such truth and love this encouragement “let’s go out expecting it.” Also love that definition of shalom! So glad to have popped over from Crystal’s today! Shalom!
So glad you stopped in Jill. Shalom to you as well.
Laura, loved the definition you shared, “Shalom, the peace that devours the chaos of life.” What a cool picture!
I agree Deb. Blessings to you!
Love that definition of peace, Laura! “Peace that devours the chaos of life.” Thanks so much for sharing this hope during the holidays. It is such a beautiful time, but can consume us if we don’t keep our priorities right! I love seeing you at #MomentsofHope!
Blessings and smiles,
Lori
Thank you so much Lori! I love sharing at #MomentsofHope as well. Blessings to you!
Love this!!
Thanks Angelyn!
Love that definition of shalom! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Dorina!
I experience peace in quiet moments – reading truth and listening to Christmas music.
Oh how I love me some Christmas music! Blessings Aleda.
I was determined to take time for Advent this year so I had all my shopping done by Thanksgiving, and 90% of my wrapping done. I sent all my cards before December 1. I am taking the time to breathe in Jesus this advent. 20 years, and I think this is the first time I’ve been really intentional with it, have to say, it’s awesome.
What a great idea Sarah! Congrats again on winning the study guide.