peace – Inner Beauty Bible Study

FICKLE FEELINGS CH 1: PEACE FOR ANXIETY

Before my first manic episode and diagnosis of bipolar disorder, I was still working as an occupational therapist. I began having mood swings which I attributed to PMS. The mood swing worsened and I became anxious because I had no answers. I began having panic attacks at work which affected my work. I finally had to take a leave of absence. Without the occupational therapy, I felt worthless. The anxiety still creeped into my everyday life. A couple of weeks after I took a leave of absence, I had my first manic episode. I felt like I had lost all control. It took a few years for the bipolar disorder to get under control due to medication. I found out that I learned many lessons from the bipolar disorder. I felt strengthened and the anxiety was replaced with His peace that passes all understanding. I praised God for His peace and His presence in my life.

MEMORY VERSE

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Anxiety…

Anxiety is “a state of being uneasy, apprehensive, or worried about what may happen” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “painful or apprehensive uneasiness of mind usually over an impending or anticipated ill” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). It is “to draw in different directions, distract…that which causes this, a care, especially an anxious care” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

Peace…

Peace is “an undisturbed state of mind; absence of mental conflict; serenity” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “a state of tranquility or quiet” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). It is “the sense of rest and contentment” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

HIDDEN GEMS

Anxiety is prevalent in today’s society. “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25, NIV). It indeed weighs a person down. Anxiety fills us with unrest and discomfort.

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken” (Psalm 55:22, NIV).

Read Psalm 55:22. What are we to cast on the Lord?

What will God do in response?

What will God never let happen.

We all need the sustaining force that God offers. When we cast our cares on the Lord, He will indeed sustain us. We can then praise God for helping us through every trial we face.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me” (John 14:1, NIV).

Read John 14:1. What are we not to let our hearts be?

What did Jesus desire for us to do?

When we believe in God, we can believe in Christ. God has the best in mind for us. However, anxiety can weigh our hearts and trouble us. Anxiety interferes with the peace that God offers.

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3, NIV).

Read Isaiah 26:3. How is peace described?

What must our minds be to keep in perfect peace?

What do they do in God?

Trust brings peace. We must have steadfast minds to obtain perfect peace. When peace comes, we can draw near to God for help.

“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14, NIV).

Read Psalm 34:14. What are we to turn from?

What are we to do?

What are we to seek and pursue?

When we seek peace and pursue it, our relationship with God is strengthened. Anxiety is not present in peace. We can then praise God for being close to us to help us do His will.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).

Read John 14:27. What did Jesus leave with His followers?

What did Jesus not give as?

What should we not let our hearts be?

What did Jesus say for us not to be?

What a marvelous gift of peace that Jesus left for us. We do not have to let our hearts be troubled or afraid as we seek God in all we do. We do not look at what the world gives because the world is filled with empty promises.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

We all experience anxiety from time to time. The good news is that we can turn to God for help in the midst of our trials. This will bring us His peace that passes all understanding.

Name a time when you felt anxious.

What trial was you facing?

How did you cry out to God?

What Scripture spoke to you during this time?

How did God bring you peace?

What marvelous peace we can have. We can praise God in the midst of our trials and obtain peace. We can then find the strength to face whatever comes our way.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I surrender my anxious cares to You this day. Fill me with Your peace that passes understanding. I praise and worship You for this peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday. Author unknown

Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength. C.H. Spurgeon

No God, no peace. Know God, know peace. Author unknown

Peace is the tranquility of order. Augustine of Hippo

There is never any peace for those who resist God. Francois Fenelon

BEING BLESSED CH 7: PEACEMAKERS

As a child, I grew up with a lot of conflict and strife. I tried my best to please my parents. I desired to ease their stress. I did not realize that I was trying to bring peace to my world filled with strife. As an adult, I avoided any kind of conflict. Conflict was very stressful to me because it caused me to have flashbacks. I cried out to God for help and He gave me the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ. I then had His peace instead of trying to do it on my own. I praised God for His peace that passes understanding.

MEMORY VERSE

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Peacemaker…

A peace maker is “a person who makes peace, as by settling the disagreements or quarrels of others” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “one who makes peace…by reconciling parties at variance” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

HIDDEN GEMS

The world is full of conflict and strife. As Christians, we all desire to live in peace with others. When strife arises, we are called to be peacemakers. Peacemakers will be rewarded by God.

“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God” (Romans 8:14, NIV).

Read Romans 8:14. Who are Christians led by?

What are those who are led by the Spirit called?

When we are led by the Spirit, we will have peace. The Holy Spirit will lead us to be peacemakers with others. We can thank the Lord for giving us the priceless gift of the Holy Spirit to guide and direct our steps.

“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited” (Romans 12:16, NIV).

Read Romans 12:16. What are we to do with one another?

What are the two things which we should not be?

What must we be willing to do?

When we live in harmony with one another, we will have peace. We will be blessed by God when we are not proud or conceited. We should associate with all people and live as peacemakers for the Kingdom of God.

“Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, NIV).

Read 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13. Who should we acknowledge?

How do these people care for us?

What do they do?

How are we to hold them?

Why should we do this?

What are we to do with each other?

Leaders of the church work hard for the Kingdom of God. We should appreciate our pastors and the hard work they do each day. We can work hard as believers to not cause strife. Instead, we should live in peace with each other.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness” (James 3:18, NIV). We will have peace in our spirits when we act as peacemakers. We will indeed reap a harvest of righteousness when we live in peace with each other as Christians. When we act as peacemakers with unbelievers, they will take notice.

Name a time when there was strife in your life.

How did you react?

How did God guide you to be a peacemaker?

How did this increase the trust in the relationship?

How did this draw you closer to God?

We all encounter strife in our lives. However, the important thing is how we react to the conflict and strife. When we act as peacemakers, our fellowship with God will increase as well as our relationships with others.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I pray for You to help me to be a peacemaker when conflict arises with others. In the church, help me to be a person of peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

We have peace with God by the righteousness of Christ, and peace of conscience by the fruits of righteousness in ourselves. Thomas Manton

Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love. Francis of Assisi

Christ alone can bring lasting peace – peace with God – peace among men and nations – and peace within our hearts. Billy Graham

There is never any peace for those who resist God. Francois Fenelon

Who except God can give you peace? Has the world ever been able to satisfy the heart? Gerard Majella

WISDOM FROM ABOVE CH 2: PEACE-LOVING

I was born a peacemaker. I remember bringing home my good grades and showing them to my mom and dad to bring them temporary joy in a tumultuous home. However, I became frustrated by my brother’s angry alcoholic tirades. Nothing could bring complete peace to my home no matter how I tried. I even blamed myself for not being good enough to bring peace. It was only when I was an adult that God showed me that I was not to blame. I realized then that I could turn to God for His peace that passes understanding no matter my circumstances.

“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere” (James 3:17, NIV).

MEMORY VERSE

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Peacemaker…

A peacemaker is “a person who makes peace, as by settling disagreements or quarrels of others” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “one who makes peace especially by reconciling parties at variance” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

HIDDEN GEMS

Peace – something that can be hard to come by in the world that we live in. However, God promises us His peace that passes all understanding. When we come to Him with anxious hearts, He will grant us peace.

“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14, NIV).

Read Psalm 34:14. What are we to turn from?

What are we to do?

What are we to seek and pursue?

Seeking and pursuing peace can give us peace of mind. We can thank God for granting us peace in the midst of our trials. When we do good and seek peace, God will never let us down.

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:17-18, NIV).

Read Romans 12:17-18. What are we not to repay anyone?

What should we be careful to do?

What are we to do with everyone?

When we are peacemakers, others in the world will take notice. Unbelievers live in strife and upheaval. Although they may not understand why we are seeking peace. They will notice that something different is in us. It is then that we can share the gospel with them.

Read 2 Corinthians 13:11. What does Paul call the Corinthians to do?

What are we to strive for?

What are we to do with one another?

What are we to be of?

How are we to live?

How is God described Who will be with us?

The God of love and peace – such a comforting description of God. We all desire God to be present in our lives and guide and direct our steps. However, strife can distance ourselves from God. When we build each other up and live in peace, God will be with us. “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15, NIV).

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification” (Romans 14:19, NIV). We can be peacemakers in this world. When we love peace, we will be at peace with ourselves and God. God is a God of peace.

Name a time when there was strife in your life.

How did you react?

How did you cry out to God?

What Scripture spoke to you during this time?

How did you react to God’s peace?

“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3, NIV). When we live in unity with fellow believers, strife will not enter. This will build us up instead of tear us down. We can then praise God with all that we have.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, help me to be a peacemaker. Fill me with Your peace that passes all understanding as I go about this day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other. Mother Teresa

We should have great peace if we did not busy ourselves with what others say and do. Thomas a Kempis

Peace reigns where our Lord reigns. Julian of Norwich

Christ alone can bring lasting peace – peace with God – peace among men and nations – and peace within our hearts. Billy Graham

There is never any peace for those who resist God. Francois Fenelon

FEAR NOT CH 8: PEACEFUL CALM

I was informed that the cancer surgeon was to do a surgery to take out the cancerous mass in my large intestine. I became anxious as I read the preparation to the surgery. I would have to take a lot of laxatives as well as take two powerful antibiotics on an empty stomach. I realized that I could handle the surgery but the prep was making me anxious. As the week before it seemed to rush ahead, I had a CT scan to determine if the cancer had spread. The test showed that the cancer had spread to the liver. I cried out to God for help. The cancer surgeon called with the results and informed me that they could no longer do the operation since the cancer had spread. Although I was concerned about the results, I was relieved that I would not have to do the prep. I asked God for His peace and strength to get me through the days ahead. I experienced a calmness and strength in my spirit and thanked God for His peace that passes all understanding.

MEMORY VERSE

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Calm…

Calm is “lack of agitation or excitement; tranquility; serenity” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “quiet and free from disturbance” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

Peace…

Peace is “an undisturbed state of mind; absence of mental conflict; serenity” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). It is “the harmonized relationships between God and man” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

HIDDEN GEMS

“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11, NIV). It can be easy to become overwhelmed and anxious in today’s world. Bad news surrounds us. However, we can focus upon God and the good news of the Bible. When we do so, our anxiety will leave and we will be blessed with peace.

“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14, NIV).

Read Psalm 34:14. What are we to turn from?

What are we to do?

What are we to seek and pursue?

Jesus tells us to do good. We are not saved by good works but we can do good to others and be richly rewarded in heaven. We can praise God as we seek and pursue His peace in the midst of our storms.

“Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble” (Psalm 119:165, NIV).

Read Psalm 119:165. Who has great peace?

What can make them stumble?

Oh, how I love God’s Word. The Bible guides and directs our steps. When we read His Word daily, we will be filled with His peace that passes all understanding. We will grow in our Christian walk as a result of reading His Word.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV).

Read John 16:33. Why did Jesus tell His followers these things?

What will we have in this world?

What has Jesus overcome?

We can be comforted by this Scripture. Although we will have trials and troubles in this world, we can have His peace to give us strength. We can then praise God for His peace that passes all understanding.

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:1-2, NIV).

Read Romans 5:1-2. How have we been justified?

Who do we have peace with?

Through Whom do we have this peace?

How have we gained access into this grace?

What do we boast in?

It is a wonderful thing to have peace with God. When we follow Him and obey Him, we will have peace through Jesus Christ. We can praise God for this peace.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace – as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people” (1 Corinthians 14:33, NIV). There is disorder in today’s world. We can become overwhelmed by the stressful events that happen in the world on a daily basis. However, God promises us His peace to do His work in the world.

Name a time when you struggled with anxiety and worry.

How did you feel?

How did you reach out to God?

How did God calm your spirit?

What Scripture spoke to you during this time?

How did this bring you comfort and strength?

“He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down and it was completely calm” (Mark 4:39, NIV). Just as Jesus calmed the storm, He can calm the storms in our lives. When we focus upon Him, we will have peace in our spirits and have the strength to face whatever comes our way.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, calm my anxious spirit this day. Thank You for Your peace that passes all understanding. Fill me with Your peace this day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

I couldn’t live in peace if I put the shadow of a willful sin between myself and God. George Eliot

There is never any peace for those who resist God. Francois Fenelon

No God, no peace. Know God, know peace. Author unknown

Peace is the tranquility of order. Augustine of Hippo

Peace reigns where our Lord reigns. Julian of Norwich

AT THE CROSS CH 7: PEACE

After my colonoscopy, the doctor informed me that I had a mass in my colon and did a biopsy. I learned from a previous experience from the doctors finding a mass on my ovary that turned out not to be cancer to not become anxious about this news. I surrendered to God’s will for my life. God gave me the Scripture, “to live is Christ, to die is gain.” This Scripture comforted me during this time. I knew it was in a win-win situation. I thanked God for His peace that passes all understanding.

MEMORY VERSE

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Peace…

Peace is “calm; quiet; tranquility” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). It is “the sense of rest and contentment” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

HIDDEN GEMS

“For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, but making peace through his blood, shed on the cross” (Colossians 1:19-20, NIV). God did indeed make peace with us through Christ shedding His blood for our sins. We can thank God for His priceless gift which brings us His peace that passes understanding.

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3, NIV).

Read Isaiah 26:3. Who will God keep in perfect peace?

Who do these people trust in?

We can have God’s peace that passes all understanding as we trust in God. We do not have to question God about are trials but to trust Him. He grants us the peace and strength to get through whatever comes our way.

“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11, NIV).

Read Psalm 29:11. What does God give to his people?

What does the Lord bless us with?

In the midst of today’s world, we all need God’s strength and peace to get through. When we rely upon our own strength, we will be filled with anxiety and always come up short. We can praise God for granting us the strength to overcame any trial in His strength instead of our own.

“I will listen to what God the Lord says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants – but let them not turn to folly” (Psalm 85:8, NIV).

Read Psalm 85:8. What does God promise to his people?

How are His servants described?

What are not to turn to?

When we focus upon God and His Word, we will have God’s peace that passes all understanding. We can praise God in song and melody for granting us His peace. God will speak to us through His Word to get through any trial.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).

Read John 14:27. What did Jesus leave with us?

What does Jesus not give as?

What are we not to let our hearts be?

What are we not to be?

Jesus left His peace with us. We must not live as the world lives. This will only bring anxiety and unrest. We can praise God for sending Jesus to die for our sins to bring us His peace through the Holy Spirit, Who resides in us.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV).

Read John 16:33. Why did Jesus tell His followers these things?

What will we have in this world?

What word of encouragement did Jesus give?

What has Jesus overcome?

Jesus wanted to give His followers His peace before He went to the cross. We all face troubles and trials. We can thank God for His peace as Jesus has overcome the world. We can be overcomers in this world in spite of our trials.

Read Romans 5:1-2. How have we been justified?

With Whom do we have peace with?

Through Whom have we gained access by faith?

Into what do we now stand?

What do we boast in?

God gives us hope and peace as we rely upon Him. “The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace” (Romans 8:6, NIV). God is a God of peace instead of death. When our minds are governed by the Spirit, we will have life and peace.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15, NIV). We are called to peace. When we are thankful, we have no room for grumbling. We can thank God for His peace that passes all understanding when we lay our burdens at the cross.

Name a time when a trial produced anxiety and unrest in you?

Did you grumble and complain?

How did you reach out to God for His peace?

How did God answer your heartfelt pleas?

What Scripture spoke to you during this time?

How did you become thankful in the midst of your trial?

How did laying your unrest at the foot of the cross?

How did this strengthen you during this time?

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace – as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people” (1 Corinthians 14:33, NIV). God is a God of peace. We all have a choice. The choice to hold onto our troubles only brings anxiety. However, we can have God’s peace as we reach out to Him.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, fill me with Your peace that passes all understanding. May I not experience anxiety by the cares of this world. Thank You for Your peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

Great peace is found in little busy-ness. Geoffrey Chaucer

No God, no peace. Know God, know peace. Author unknown

Christ alone can bring lasting peace – peace with God – peace among men and nations – and peace within our hearts. Billy Graham

Peace reigns where our Lord reigns. Julian of Norwich

If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other. Mother Teresa

JUBILANT JOY CH 6: PEACEFUL JOY

I had just tested positive on a colon cancer screening test. Initially, the fear of death gripped me. However, almost immediately peace filled my being. Something else filled me that was new to me during a trial – joy. God gave me the Scripture that to live is Christ and to die is gain. I felt a load lifted and knew that God would be with me every step of the way. I surrendered to God’s will in peace and joy.

MEMORY VERSE

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Peace…

Peace is “harmony…freedom from disagreements” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). Peace is “the sense of rest and contentment” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

Joy…

Joy is “a very glad feeling…great pleasure; delight” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). “Joy is associated with life…experiences of sorrow prepare for, and enlarge, the capacity for joy” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

HIDDEN GEMS

“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11, NIV). Peace brings us joy. The Lord strengthens us in the joy of the Lord. In doing so, He gives strength and peace in everything we do.

“I will listen to what the Lord says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants – but let them not turn to folly” (Psalm 85:8, NIV).

Read Psalm 85:8. Who will we listen to?

What does God promise to His people?

How are servants described?

What should we not turn to?

God’s promises are in His Word. There are countless promises. This will bring us comfort and joy and strength in the midst of our trials. We can then praise God for getting us through the trials in our lives and giving us a peaceful joy.

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3, NIV).

Read Isaiah 26:3. What will God keep us in?

Who will He do this for?

Why is this so?

When we trust God, we will have joy and peace. Trust requires dependence upon God. The world clamors for our attention and tells us to be independent. However, when we ignore their talk and submit to God, we will have peaceful joy.

“But glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For God does not show favoritism” (Romans 2:10-11, NIV).

Read Romans 2:10-11. What three things come to all who do good?

What is this first for?

What is this second for?

What does God not show?

God has no favorites. I found comfort in this Scripture when I was going through the recovery from sexual abuse I endured as a child. I grew up thinking it was my fault. However, when I looked into His Word, I had peace instead of anxiety.

“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval” (Romans 14:17-18, NIV).

Read Romans 14:17-18. What is the kingdom of God not a matter of?

What three things are it a matter of?

Who is pleasing to God?

What do they receive from humans?

“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you” (2 Corinthians 13:11, NIV). What an encouraging way to end Paul’s letter to the Corinthians. When we follow these commands, we will indeed rejoice. It is then we will have peace and joy. “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity” (Colossians 3:15, NIV).

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33, NIV). The world is full of anxiety and disorder. However, God is not like this. He offers us His peace that passes all understanding instead of anxiety. We must come to Him for comfort and peace.

Name a time when you were filled with anxiety.

What was the trial?

How did you reach out to God?

What Scripture spoke to you during this time?

How did God grant you comfort and peace?

How did you praise God for His peace and joy?

“You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace” (Isaiah 55:12, NIV). Joy and peace – something we all long for. God promises this in His Word and He will grant this to us when we come to Him. We can then praise God for blessing us with His peace and joy.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I surrender to You this day any anxiety I am feeling. Fill me with Your joy and peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

We should have great peace if we did not busy ourselves with what others say and do. Thomas a Kempis

If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other. Mother Teresa

If you take little account of yourself, you will have peace, wherever you live. Abba Poemen

Peace if possible, truth at all costs. Martin Luther

Christ alone can bring lasting peace – peace with God – peace among men and nations – and peace within our hearts. Billy Graham

BIBLE BLESSINGS CH 8: INCREASED PEACE

I had an important decision to make and I was getting more anxious by the minute. I didn’t know if I should go ahead with the brain surgery to remove scar tissue that was causing my seizures. I called a friend and asked if she could pray with me. She said that she would be right over. As we sat with Bibles in our laps, we prayed that God would speak to me through His Word. As I opened God’s Word, the word, come, came up twice in my reading. I felt as if the Lord was drawing me near to Him for His comfort and peace. As I continued reading His Word, I came across a comment in Max Lucado’s Bible which I was reading. It stated, “The Word of God is like a surgeon’s scalpel, both cutting and healing.” As I read this, peace filled me instead of the anxiety. I knew that God had spoken to me and that I was to go ahead with the brain surgery.

MEMORY VERSE

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Peace…

HIDDEN GEMS

“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11, NIV). God desires to bless us with His peace. One way we can increase our peace is by digging deeply into the Bible. This is indeed one of the blessings of God’s Word. When we feel anxious, we can go to God in prayer and read His Word for His peace that passes all understanding.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV).

Read John 16:33. Why did Jesus tell His disciples these things?

What will we have in this world?

What word of encouragement did Jesus leave with His disciples?

We can have peace in Christ instead of the anxiety and unrest of the world. It can be easy to fall into anxiety as we focus upon all that is not right with the world. The world clamors for our attention. However, we can go to God and His Word for His peace instead of anxiety the world offers.

“There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For God does not show favoritism” (Romans 2:9-11, NIV).

Read Romans 2:9-11. What will there be for those who do evil?

What will there be for those who do good?

What does God not do?

We may have grown up with a parent showing favoritism toward one of the children. However, God does not operate this way. He shows no favoritism. God loves each of His children in a unique way. He knows the best way to shower His love upon us. This will give us peace and strength to face whatever comes our way.

Read Romans 5:1-2. Through what have we been justified?

What do we have with God?

What do we boast in?

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace – as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people” (1 Corinthians 14:33, NIV). We can have disorder and disarray in our everyday lives. However, we can always go to God for His peace. God desires for us to read His Word in order to attain peace once again.

Read Philippians 4:6-7. What are we not to be?

How are we to present our requests to God?

How is peace described?

What will this peace guard?

“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you” (2 Corinthians 13:11, NIV). We can sum up this section by going to God for His peace that passes all understanding. We can thank God for His peace which lead us to live lives to glorify His name instead of the anxiety so prevalent in this world.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

Peace is something we all desire. In this world, we can become anxious about things that are happening around us. However, God desires for us to come to Him for His peace that passes understanding. When we read His Word, He will shower us with His peace.

Name a time when you became anxious about what was happening in your life.

What did you do?

How did you reach out to God?

How did Scripture speak to you during this time?

How did this bring you God’s peace that passes all understanding?

How did this strengthen your Christian walk?

“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3, NIV). In addition to God giving us His peace, God desires for us to live with fellow believers in peace. When we live in unity, we will be strengthened to face whatever comes our way.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I surrender my anxious thoughts to You this day. Fill me with Your peace that passes all understanding as I study Your Word. Help me to live at peace with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

Who except God can give you peace? Has the world ever been able to satisfy the heart? Gerard Majella

Christ alone can bring lasting peace – peace with God – peace among men and nations – and peace within our hearts. Billy Graham

Peace reigns where our Lord reigns. Julian of Norwich

If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other. Mother Teresa

We should have great peace if we did not busy ourselves with what others say and do. Thomas a Kempis

TOTAL FORGIVENESS CH 8: PEACEFUL FREEDOM

I was filled with anxiety during my teenage years. Depression afflicted me. I did not know what was wrong with me. However, that all changed when I returned to God when I was 25. Little by little, God helped me to see the unforgiveness I had in my heart toward those who hurt me as a child. I was in bondage to unforgiveness and bitterness. As I forgave those who harmed me, God’s peace and joy filled my heart instead of depression and anxiety. I felt a peace as I was set free from unforgiveness and bitterness.

MEMORY VERSE

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Peace…

Peace is “an undisturbed state of mind; absence of mental conflict; serenity” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is a “state of tranquility or quiet” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

Freedom…

Freedom is “liberty; independence” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “the absence of necessity, coercion, or constraint in choice or action” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

HIDDEN GEMS

“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11, NIV). We are blessed with peace through Christ. We are God’s people in this world. The world is filled with anxiety and unrest but we can seek peace and find it. “Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14, NIV).

“Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble” (Psalm 119:165, NIV).

Read Psalm 119:165. Who has great peace?

What will make them stumble?

God has blessed us with His Word. It guides and directs our steps. It gives us peace in the midst of the troubles of this world. We can find peace in the midst of the cares and concerns of this life by meditating on God’s Word.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).

Read John 14:27. What did Jesus give us?

What are the two things we are not to do?

We need not be afraid as the Lord freely gives us His peace that passes all understanding. We may feel troubled at times, but the good news is that we can lift our burdens to God and let them go into His capable hands. We will then live at peace within ourselves and with others.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV).

Read John 16:33. Why did Jesus tell us these things?

What will we have in this world?

What has Jesus overcome?

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17, NIV). Jesus overcame the world. We can have a peace and freedom through the Holy Spirit, who was given to us after Jesus died for our sins.

“To the Jews who had believed, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31-32, NIV).

Read John 8:31-32. Who was Jesus addressing?

Who are really His disciples?

What will we know as a result?

What will set us free?

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1, NIV). We can hold to the truth of the Lord’s teaching. The truth has indeed set us free. God desires for us to stand firm and live in the freedom that Jesus died for us to have. We can be set free from unforgiveness and bitterness.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace” (Romans 8:6, NIV). When we act according to the flesh, we will act in unforgiveness. This will cause anxiety in our lives. However, we can choose to have our minds governed by the Spirit, who will give us peace as we forgive and walk in peace with others.

Name a time when you felt anxious.

How did worry overwhelm you?

Was your mind governed by the flesh?

Did unforgiveness play a role in your anxiety?

How did you turn to God for help?

How did you forgive others?

How did this bring you peaceful freedom?

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death” (Romans 8:1-2, NIV). This was a powerful Scripture which meant a lot to me as I learned to forgive myself. I realized that I was harder on myself than on the people who abused me as a child. God helped me to realize this by speaking to me, I have already forgiven you, My child, you must forgive yourself. We can have difficulty forgiving ourselves but God promises in His Word that there is now no condemnation in Christ Jesus.

Name a time when you found it difficult to forgive yourself.

What did you do?

How did God make you aware of this unforgiveness?

How did you forgive yourself?

How did this set you free?

We have no condemnation in Christ Jesus. Just as forgiving others sets us free, so does forgiving ourselves. “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18, NIV). When we forgive and live at peace with others, we will experience freedom from the bondage of unforgiveness. We can then pursue God’s Word and His unique calling He has upon our lives. We can then live in peaceful freedom. We can praise God for setting us free.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me peaceful freedom as I forgive myself and others. Forgiveness sets me free to be the person You created me to be. Thank You for guiding and directing my steps in the midst of the cares of this world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

The basic test of freedom is perhaps less in what we are free to do than in what we are free not to do. Eric Hoffer

We find freedom when we find God; we lose it when we lose Him. Paul E. Scherer

Set me free from evil passions, and heal my heart of all inordinate affections; that being inwardly cured and thoroughly cleansed, I may be made fit to love, courageous to suffer, steady to persevere. Thomas a Kempis

Peace if possible, truth at all costs. Martin Luther

Who except God can give you peace? Has the world ever been able to satisfy the heart? Gerard Majella

THINK ON SUCH THINGS CH 5: PURE PEACE

Prior to the diagnosis of bipolar disorder, I remember feeling as if I was on a roller coaster while still working as an occupational therapist. On some days, I felt so productive and rushing to get things done. This provided a high for me. However, on other days, I felt like I could hardly concentrate and was very slow. I would feel low and depressed during these times. On other days, I remember anxiety getting the best of me as I became frustrated with this roller coaster of emotions. This led to panic attacks. When anxiety was at its highest, I cried out to God for His peace. God was always quick to act on my behalf to offer me His peace that passes all understanding. This gave me the strength to persevere in the midst of this trial in my life.

MEMORY VERSE

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Peace…

Peace is “an undisturbed state of mind; absence of mental conflict; serenity” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). Peace is “the harmonized relationships between God and man, accomplished through the gospel” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

HIDDEN GEMS

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3, NIV). When we trust in God, we will have peace. Our minds must focus upon God and His Word. The Lord will bless us and give strength to face whatever comes our way when we focus upon Him. “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11, NIV).

“But seek first his kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:33-34, NIV).

Read Matthew 6:33-34. What are we to seek first?

What will happen as a result?

What are we not to worry about?

What does each day have?

When we focus on the moment we are in, we will have peace and not be overwhelmed. However, when we begin to worry about what might happen in the future, we will be afflicted with anxiety. The good news is that we can turn to God to strengthen our weary souls and grant us His peace that passes all understanding.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).

Read John 14:27. What did Jesus leave with His disciples?

What does Jesus not give as?

What don’t we not let our hearts be?

What should we not be?

“The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace” (Romans 8:6, NIV). When we live by the flesh, we will have anxiety and unrest. However, when we live by the Spirit, we will have peace and life. The Spirit will give us new life each day as we seek Him.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV).

Read John 16:33. Why did Jesus tell us these things?

What will we have in this world?

What encouragement did Jesus give us?

What has Jesus overcome?

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15, NIV). As Christians, we are called to peace. We can turn to God in the midst of our trials for His peace that passes understanding. We can live at peace with each other and be thankful. In response, we will live peaceful and fruitful lives as Christians. “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1, NIV).

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace – as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people” (1 Corinthians 14:33, NIV). In the hustle and bustle of today’s world, it is easy to lose our peace. We must make a concerted effort to turn to God and receive His peace that passes all understanding.

Name a time when you felt overwhelmed by the world.

How did you feel?

How did you turn to God?

How did He give you His peace?

How did this peace give you strength to focus upon Him instead of the clamor of the world?

The world can overwhelm us by constant demands. This may divert us from spending time with God. I remember as an occupational therapist that I would rationalize this by saying I did not have time to spend time with God. However, the bipolar disorder soon got my attention as I turned to God for His help and peace.

Name a time when you did not spend time with God.

How did this affect your everyday life?

How did God get your attention?

How did you turn to God once again for His peace?

“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you” (2 Corinthians 13:11, NIV). When we live in peace, the God of peace will be with us. God’s peace that passes understanding is priceless. It allows us to face whatever comes our way in God’s strength instead of our own. We can then praise God for being there for us through it all.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your peace that passes understanding. Help me to seek You daily for a fresh filling of Your peace to face whatever comes my way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

No God, no peace. Know God, know peace. Author unknown

Peace is the tranquility of order. Augustine of Hippo

Great peace is found in little busy-ness. Geoffrey Chaucer

Christ alone can bring lasting peace – peace with God – peace among men and nations – and peace within our hearts. Billy Graham

We should have great peace if we did not busy ourselves with what others say and do. Thomas a Kempis

BOUNTIFUL GRACE CH 6: GRACE AND PEACE

Oh no! What am I going to do? I thought to myself as the worst-case scenario filled my thoughts. Anxiety paralyzed me as I kept going back to the words I had just heard from the doctor – “We found an abnormality and we have to do further tests.” My mother had died from the same cancer only a few years earlier. My grief was still painful and raw. I reached for the phone to call a friend. As I poured out my anxious thoughts, she offered to pray for me. As the prayer unfolded, my anxiety was replaced with God’s peace that passes understanding. My friend also offered to take me to the upcoming tests. God gave me the peace to ignore my anxious thoughts as well as the grace and strength to face whatever came my way. After the tests were completed, the doctor informed me that the abnormality was benign. I praised God that day, not only for the test results, but also for granting me the grace and peace that His presence brings to my life.

MEMORY VERSE

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Peace…

Anxiety…

Anxiety is “a state of being uneasy, apprehensive, or worried about what may happen; concern about a possible future event” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is a “painful or apprehensive uneasiness of mind…over an impending or anticipated ill” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

HIDDEN GEMS

“Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 1:2, NIV). Paul addresses his readers wishing them grace and peace. Peace is a prized possession when we desire it and reach out to God for His peace instead of our anxiety. Paul knew the value of peace as he desires for them to have grace and peace.

Read Romans 5:1-2. How have we been justified?

Who do we have peace with?

Through Whom do we have peace with God?

What have we gained access by faith?

What do we boast in?

Boasting in one’s own accomplishments leads to pride. However, when we boast in the hope of the glory of God, we please God as we offer up praises to Him. This leads to grace and peace.

Read Philippians 4:6-7. What are we not to be anxious about?

How are we to present our requests to God?

How is the peace of God described?

What will the peace of God guard?

As Christians, we can find great comfort in the above Scriptures. We can come to God with our anxiety and leave it with Him. As we surrender our anxiety, it is replaced with His peace that passes understanding.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).

Read John 14:27. What did Jesus leave with His disciples?

How does Jesus not give this peace as?

What are we not to have our hearts be?

We are not to be afraid of the events that surround us. The world offers us as false peace. However, the peace that Jesus gives is steadfast. We do not have to let our hearts and minds be troubled as we can come to God with our stresses and anxieties. “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11, NIV).

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV). We can find great comfort in this Scripture. It is easy to be overcome with the world and its problems around us. But knowing that Jesus has overcome the world gives us grace and peace.

Name a time when the stress of everyday life felt overwhelming.

How did you feel?

How did you reach out – to others or God?

How did you bring God your anxiety and stress?

What was the result?

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15, NIV). Thankfulness brings peace because it focuses our attention on God instead of our circumstances. We can praise God in the midst of the storms of life and find grace and peace in our troubles.

Name a time in your life when you focused your attention on your circumstances.

How did you reach out to God?

How did you feel?

How did God give you the strength to endure it?

How did you offer up a sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving?

How did this bring you grace and peace?

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3, NIV). We can trust in God. The promises of His Word are true. “Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble” (Psalm 119:165, NIV). God will never let us down. God will bring us perfect peace as we trust in Him.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your peace that passes all understanding. This gives me the grace and strength to face whatever comes my way. Thank You for Your promises in Your Word. Help me to always be thankful for all that you have done for me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

No God, no peace. Know God, know peace. Author unknown

If a man does not say in his heart, in the world there is only myself and God, he will not gain peace. Abba Alonius

My soul can see no other remedy leasing to God than peace. Catherine of Siena

I wouldn’t live in peace if I put the shadow of a willful sin between myself and God. George Eliot

We are not at peace with others because we are not at peace with ourselves, and we are not at peace with ourselves because we are not at peace with God. Thomas Merton