“But I have calmed and quieted my soul,
like a weaned child with its mother;
like a weaned child is my soul within me.
O Israel, hope in the Lord
from this time forth and forevermore.”
– Psalm 131:2-3
We live in an era where everything is tuned to stir up our souls to ever-increasing anger, anxiety, fear, and frustration. Every form of media profits from getting us more and more worked up. No wonder we live in an anxious, fearful, rage filled world! However, the people of God should choose NOT to play this game!
By the power of God’s Spirit within us, we can calm and quiet our souls. The knowledge that sovereign God is in us, with us, and reigning over us allows us to live in an ongoing state of peaceful calm. The world won’t be calm, but we can be. Because our hope is in God Almighty rather than armies, laws, courts, politicians, traditions, systems, or structures, we can live at peace.
If you’ve been struggling with all the tumult and turbulence in the world, if you’ve been constantly on edge for months or years, or if you’re quick to fall into rage or despair, calm yourself! As we enter the stress and hustle and bustle of the holiday season, calm your soul. Place your hope in God. Trust in Him. Things may be strange and challenging, but God is steadfast and good. Intentionally quiet your soul whenever it grows agitated. Pray right then and there. Embrace God’s peace and satisfaction as you navigate our decidedly un-peaceful and dissatisfied world.