When I sit on the dock looking out over the lake, I feel at peace. I experience a quiet sense of calmness. When I’m on the beach, watching the steady waves on the soft sand, I see the amazing view and feel God’s peaceful presence. Wading in a beautiful stream while fishing, I feel surrounded by God’s wonderful creation. There is something special about water and the peace it brings. In Psalm 23, David writes these words of comfort and peace, “He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.”
This famous hymn, written by Horatio Spafford, is an example of finding peace in the midst of grief, trouble, or tragic events in our lives.
It is Well with My Soul “When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll’ Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul.”
God’s peace lies beyond our circumstances, worries, difficulties, or tribulations. “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.” Isaiah 26:3
One of my favorite verses is found in Philippians 4:6. It is God’s promise to give us a peace that passes all understanding. A peace that has strong, steadfast faith and confidence, believing that no matter what circumstances we encounter, God is faithful, God is good, God will keep us, God will provide for us, and God will bless us. It’s a faith that looks past circumstances to the God who works all things for our good and His glory.
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs and don’t forget to thank him for his answers. If you do this you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ Jesus.”
Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd. He meets all my needs. I rest in green pastures. My soul He does feed. He leads to the water That quiets all fear, And guides me in paths Of righteousness, so dear. Someday I will walk Through the valley of death. But He’ll give me comfort ‘Til I take my last breathe He’ll prepare a table And anoint my head. My cup overflows. By His spirit I’m fed. Goodness and mercy Will forever be mine. And I’ll dwell in the house Of God’s great design.