Perfect Peace

Isaiah 26:3-4, 12

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. 4 Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD himself, is the Rock eternal… 12 LORD, you establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished you have done for us.”

For many years I was searching for something to fill the emptiness within. In my school life, temporary fulfillment was found in popularity with others, academic achievement, and elected leadership roles. It mainly came from fickle “friends”, and it was all fleeting. Nothing filled the hole inside.

In my professional life, I was certain the next raise, the early promotion, or another “good job” from the boss would satisfy the emptiness. The “top of the ladder” success on Park Avenue in New York City didn’t cut it. Neither did the beautiful wife and adopted infant son.

Dissatisfaction with worldly success, and a mid-life crisis, led to searching for completion in drugs, alcohol, pornography and sexual immorality. The hole deep inside me only got deeper and wider. Nothing worked and I thought there was only one way to stop hurting – suicide. Couldn’t do it.

Looking back, I praise God regularly for preventing my death and allowing me to go to prison. Alone, on my bunk, I cried out to God from the memories I had of Him growing up in the Baptist church, received His love and forgiveness, and asked Jesus to come into my heart.

Instantly I was filled with peace and sweet relief from the Holy Spirit of God. I haven’t been lost, lonely, depressed, or empty since. Do you have His Peace?

TODAY’S CHALLENGE:

Reaffirm your trust in the Father, and thank Him for your Eternal Rock, Jesus. Rest in the Spirit.

Dive Deeper: Study Isaiah 26; Philippians 4:4-8; Romans 8:6; 2 Timothy 1:7; 1 John 4:18; Hebrews 13:5-6; John 14:27, 16:33; Isaiah 32:17, 48:17-18; Psalm 34:14, 119:65; 1 Peter 5:6-7; 2 Thessalonians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 14:33; Galatians 5:22-23.