Articles
The Secret to Peace
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Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:6-7)
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The fact that the richest country in the world is currently experiencing a mental health crisis should convince us that peace of mind is not a commodity that can be purchased. There is something missing in the American soul, and that deficiency is destroying us. What is it?
The rising influence of atheism could explain the problem. When people in large numbers cast aside belief in a transcendent power, they have nothing to fall back on when life gets hard. Utterly alone in a cold, uncaring universe, they struggle to find any meaning or purpose in their lives. It's hard to be positive when you've convinced yourself that you are an insignificant speck of matter.
But merely believing in God does not render us immune to this existential despair. Many who profess belief in God have not yet figured out how to translate their belief into conviction. Their faith is weak and shallow. Even minor bumps in the road send them into an emotional tailspin. They pray to God for help, but He seems so elusive, so far away.
In this text, Paul puts his finger on the missing ingredient: a spirit of gratitude. When we learn to be thankful for everything that God has provided us, that consciousness of blessing will cast all our life experiences in a new light. Once we see the big picture of God's involvement in human affairs--including our own--we realize that we have nothing to complain about. Even our hardships can be seen as opportunities for personal growth. Everything will be okay, and we can smile again.
The words of the old Johnson Oatman song, "When Upon Life's Billows" captures the transformation perfectly: "Are you ever burdened with a load of care? / Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear? Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly / And you will be singing as the days go by."
On this Thanksgiving Day, in a year when it seems that nothing has gone right, take the time to reflect on all the blessings you enjoy from God's hand. Be thankful, and the peace of God will guard your heart and mind.
--David
