Monday, August 22, 2011

The Pursuit of Peace

No one can expect inner peace unless their heart and mind are seeking Jesus. While a well-balanced life, exercise, a fun hobby and a good friend can help, we must recognize that deep and abiding peace — the kind that surpasses understanding — comes from only one place. Where? In the presence of our Heavenly Father. Let us be still and know that He is God.

Psalm 46

New Living Translation (NLT)

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.

So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.

Let the oceans roar and foam.

Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!
Interlude

A river brings joy to the city of our God, the sacred home of the Most High.
God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed.
From the very break of day, God will protect it.
The nations are in chaos, and their kingdoms crumble!
God’s voice thunders, and the earth melts!
The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress.
Interlude

Come, see the glorious works of the Lord:
See how he brings destruction upon the world.
He causes wars to end throughout the earth.
He breaks the bow and snaps the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.

“Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”

The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress.