From Colossians 3
What a battle the will is known to wage at times. I know what the Scripture says. I know what God desires for me. I want this peace in my heart that is spoken of. I just want God to DO something…change my situation…change other people…that I might have this inner peace, when all along the determining factor for having that peace or not having it, lies with me.
How many imperatives are given in Colossians 3 alone: set; mortify; put off; put on; forgive, let…??? Having the peace of God rule in my heart begins with choosing to take a personal look at my role in this reality.
If I’m honest with myself, I can find it easy to justify holding on to my unrest based on what I feel is the responsibility of others to STOP IRRITATING ME. Why can’t people just do what they’re supposed to do? Why can’t people just be responsible and kind and considerate and respectful and patient and honest, and unselfish…and, wait! I can’t control these behaviors in others, but the behaviors of others do not have to control me. I have a privilege, a high calling…to honor my Savior by choosing to do as He asks. That in itself should be reason enough to “let”, but amazingly in my obedience, He eliminates the inner turmoil, the frustration, the anger, the irritation that I experience by holding on, by reacting, by expecting something of others that is not mine to control.
Easier said than done? Probably. But that’s not the issue. So, how? How do I practically apply this “letting” principle? It’s a conscious, determined effort. Once the will chooses to redirect the mind’s thinking, the emotions and feelings are easier brought into check. Make it a step by step process…stop, step back, step forward.
Stop: take a moment to stop what you’re doing, what you’re thinking, and deliberately change your thoughts and actions. Verbalize it if necessary. Make a declaration…I will be patient with others, I will change what I can, and let go what I cannot. I will…
Step back: take a deep breath, think on Scripture, pray, releasing your FEELINGS to the Lord. Receive all He promises about the situation…wisdom, strength, patience, whatever it is.
Step forward: go on with your day, doing what needs to be done. Praise the Lord for His abiding presence and work in your life, for what He has done TO you.
It’s just like God to take all I bring to Him in unrest, and turn it into beautiful peace.
