August 15 Prayer

Laying in bed at night, replaying the hurtful words about being “the fat friend”. Beating myself up for not being able to stick to yet another diet plan. Wallowing in feelings of guilt and failure. I found myself trapped in a cycle of self-loathing, craving any form of peace within my own skin.

Yet, the Bible speaks about peace countless times. A concept that seems abstract in our world that’s engulfed in chaos. We want relief from our worries and fears, but it often feels beyond our grasp. This is why Peter encourages us to actively “search for peace and work to maintain it”. This means we have a role to play in experiencing the comfort we so desire. Jesus assures us of His gift of peace: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.”

For me, peace is freedom from the harassment of negative self-talk. My “search” entails taking charge of my thoughts. Deliberately shifting them towards more neutral or positive thoughts.  Philippians 4:8 guides us to only think about things that are noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy. In the face of our mind’s dumpster fire of negativity, this becomes the essence of the search and maintenance of peace. A conscious choice to focus on thoughts that uplift, rather than tear down.

The beauty of pursuing this gift of peace is a transformation of our thought life. It frees us from reliance on emotions and circumstances. It anchors us in the positivity and calmness of God’s grace. Through His divine support, we find contentment with ourselves, just as we are.

Peace is not an abstract concept; it’s concrete, tangible, and attainable. It begins by actively searching for it, redirecting our thoughts toward positivity and grace. In doing so, we free ourselves from the chains of negative self-talk and embrace the serenity that God so lovingly offers. Peace is a gift He freely bestows. When we accept it with open hearts, we discover the profound contentment that comes from being at peace with ourselves.