“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.” – Colossians 3:15 NLT

What a PERFECT Word for today.

Think about the news we have going on right now: Beheadings, shootings, stabbings, perversions and cruelty to our children; wildfires, earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, famines, landslides, cave-ins….. What more can go wrong with our world, and how in God’s Name can I be THANKFUL in the midst of this chaos?

Exactly that: In GOD’S Name. Peace amidst chaos is only possible through Jesus.

I admit that these things I have listed above are not circumstances I am dealing with personally right now, and it is easy for me to say “Oh, just trust in the LORD for your strength.” Sometimes the chaos we are dealing with isn’t something others can see. It can be hidden physical or mental abuse; it can be physical issues that cause constant pain or unrelenting fatigue. It could be the worry of how the bills will be paid this month, and the choice of buying groceries or needed medicines.

As Christians, too many times we are quick to judge be appearances. That “bum” you just passed on the corner could be a recipient of the Silver Star for bravery in battle, or the Purple Heart for being wounded in service, who came home to realize that he (or she) no longer fits into society. It can be any of us, through the loss of our income or because of violence in the home. There are many, many reasons. But for the Grace of God, Who has provided me with a home, a caring family, and financial assistance, I could be the person living on the street. (Been there, even though it was years ago and only for a short time. It’s a short trip to end up there.) We can look pulled together on the outside, and be a complete mess on the inside. We can appear healthy, and be dying physically or spiritually. Don’t judge; it isn’t okay.

“Don’t just pretend to love others. Really LOVE them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.” – Romans 12:9‭-‬10 NLT

Another verse that is easy to say, and, many times and for most of us, difficult to live. All I can tell you is to look to Jesus. He is the ONLY Way I have survived my life and my bad choices. He is ready and willing to do the same for you, anytime you want Him. All you have to do is ask Him. I’m not saying you will be miraculously be healed physically, although it can certainly happen. You may still be unemployed, or unemployable, or wondering which bills to pay and which to let slide this month. Even here, you can have the Peace that comes from Jesus. I may never have financial security in this life; in fact, I doubt that I will. I know I will never be without pain, or to do everything I think I should be capable of physically. I put my trust in the LORD, and count on Him. Best choice I EVER made. Amen!

Thank you, John Lawton, for the beautiful painting!