Peace and Contentment

(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)

Matthew 10:19 When you are arrested, don’t worry about how to respond or what to say. God will give you the right words at the right time.

The one command Jesus communicated more than any other was, “Don’t be afraid.” When Jesus sent out His disciples He didn’t sugarcoat what they would experience. But He also assured them that there was no reason to be afraid. 

In our own lives, we are often afraid of what might happen. Each and every day we have thoughts of, “What if…” enter into our minds. What if my spouse or child are in a terrible car accident? What if I lose my job? What if my sales report is low again this quarter? What if my landlord requires us to move out because we’re short on rent…again. What if…? 

This worst-case scenario way of thinking creates tension and anxiety and isn’t good for our souls. Jesus sent out His disciples saying, “These things will happen…but don’t worry about how to respond or what to say.” The principle is clear: we can experience peace and contentment no matter the circumstances we’re facing.

READING & PRAYERS:

     MATTHEW 10:10-31 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)

QUESTION: Do you have any ongoing “what if…” thoughts that are preventing you from experiencing lasting peace and contentment in your life? How may Jesus be inviting you to hand those thoughts over to Him so you can “be not afraid”? 

REAL LIFE PRACTICE: Write down a list of 5-10 things that help you experience peace and contentment in life. Then make a plan to make these things part of your regular routing in the weeks to come.

Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I recognize there are times when I get caught in a mental battle and can only think of the worst-case scenario. Today, may I rest in you, knowing that no matter the circumstances, I need not be afraid. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)