Let the Peace of Christ Rule in Your Hearts - Colossians 3:15

Colossians 3:15 -- “And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.”

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Life is full of stress, especially around this time of year. There is much to plan, many people with very different, even contrasting personalities, coming together in small spaces for possible long periods of time. There is a lot to keep track of, to navigate and control the inevitable chaos.

However stressed the situation has the potential to be, God does not want you burdened or full of fear. Unfortunately that is what stress does to you, it puts fear in your heart, which then leaves no room for God’s peace.

Isaiah 41:10 -- “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”

God does not want us to fear. He is our God and He wants to strengthen us and give us victory. Sometimes that victory is as simply as getting through the holidays with peace in our hearts. Let God rule there, cast all of your burdens on Him and He will give you rest.

We are called to be together is peace, we are commanded to love one another. The truth is, no matter how stressful the holidays are, God is stronger. He is stronger than the stress. He is stronger than the chaos. And He will grant us peace. 

He will give us the true perspective that those same people who cause you stress are the very people that God wants us to be thankful for. We are all God’s children and He wants us to love each other, no matter what. So be thankful this season, for everything God has blessed you with and let His peace rule in your heart.

View more in the "With Thankful Hearts" Series