What’s the process for finding peace of mind? Well, it’s not an outcome of some accomplishment. Instead, it’s is a choice we make that’s not dependent upon something else happening.
Peace of mind is an interesting phrase. It suggests, I believe, that we are at peace with ourselves, as well as with those around us. It means we are spiritually centered.
We use that phrase but we recognize that peace resides deep inside our inner self. That said, “mind” is appropriate because we choose peace.
Where is Peace of Mind?
Now, peace of mind can be treated similarly to two related emotions – happiness and fulfillment.
How so? We often, incorrectly, view peace as a destination rather than as a deliberately-chosen state of mind.
For example, we say things like “I will have peace of mind when ______”.
Likewise, we say “I will be happy when _______”.
In so doing, we treat peace as an emotional state that is dependent upon something else happening, such as an accomplishment or the settling of a situation.
But, the fact is, peace, like happiness and fulfillment, isn’t a physical place. Or, a point in time.
It’s not an outcome of some accomplishment. Instead, peace of mind is a choice we make that’s not dependent upon something else happening.
Most critically, external circumstances don’t determine our peace, IF we so choose!
We often, incorrectly, view piece of mind as a destination rather than as a deliberately-chosen state of mind. proverbsforprofessionals.net
Faith and Peace of Mind
So, how do I position myself to achieve peace of mind?
If it’s not a place, but a condition, that is a mindset, what enables that condition?
Well, for a person of faith, divine peace is both a blessing and a deliberate choice. More specifically, it’s an outcome of our relationship with the Lord.
That said, peace can be challenged by life circumstances. Thus, peace will need to be restored when it’s been disturbed.
Here are a few, select references to “peace” in scripture. All the Old Testament references use the Hebrew word Shalom.
1). “Go in peace”, as a blessing, appears regularly in the Old Testament.
For examples, see Exodus 4.18, Judges 18.6, 1 Samuel 1.17 and 20.13, 2 Samuel 15.9, and 2 Kings 5.19. See also Luke 7.50 and 8.48, and Acts 16.36 for uses in the New Testament.
2). Peace is a sign of God’s blessing, Psalm 29.11.
3). We are to seek peace, Psalm 34.14.
4). God speaks peace to us, Psalm 85.8. See also 1 Corinthians 14.33.
5). Peace is an outcome of a precept-driven life, Proverbs 3.2 and 3.17.
6). In John 14.27 Christ tells us He is leaving peace with us by giving us His peace.
That peace is available in time of trouble, when we are afraid. He also made that same statement in one of His post-resurrection appearances; see John 20.19 and John 20.21.
Peace has been left for us. However, we must choose to accept that peace!
7). Paul regularly used “peace” as a greeting and blessing in the Introductions to his letters, even though his life was anything but peaceful!
For examples of the word peace (eirene), often paired with the word “grace,” see Romans 1.7, 1 Corinthians 1.3, Galatians 1.3, Ephesians 1.2, and Philippians 1.2.
That peace come from the Father and the Son. Those greetings came in letters Paul wrote from prison. As such, he signified that peace isn’t dependent on circumstances.
8). Peace comes out of a Spirit-filled life, Galatians 5.22.
9). We enjoy peace as an outcome of prayer, Philippians 4.6-7.
10). God blesses those who are peace-makers, Matthew 5.9.
We have the PEACE OF GOD, Philippians 4.7, Colossians 3.15, and
Know the GOD OF PEACE, Romans 15.33 and Romans 16.20, 2 Corinthians 13.11, Philippians 4.9, 1 Thessalonians 5.23, Hebrews 13.20, when
We have made PEACE WITH GOD by being justified by our faith, Romans 5.1!
In short, divine, inner peace is available to a person of faith!
Other Sources of Peace
For a parent, children who are healthy, settled, and flourishing are a source of peace.
Close relationships, such as with immediate family and friends, can bring us peace.
Likewise, our good health, physical safety, financial independence, and clarity of life purpose can set the stage for peace of mind, IF we so choose.
Note that in each of these external sources of peace we make a choice. That is, we choose to focus on the blessing, the good, and the abundance.
Truly, peace of mind is a choice.
What Peace of Mind is Not!
I don’t believe peace of mind means we are clueless about life challenges. Or, that we underestimate the size of a challenge. And, certainly it’s not based on life outcomes always being good!
Peace of mind doesn’t mean I put off making hard choices. Or, avoid taking risks.
It’s not resignation to some expected, negative outcome. Peace of mind isn’t carelessly expressed by “Whatever!”
Some Takeaways!
Peace of mind is a choice. Conversely, peace is not a place, a time, or a condition.
My faith in God makes available my peace of mind. Peace is there for me to choose.
External circumstances can contribute to peace of mind, but they are not the ultimate source of my peace. Likewise, external circumstances can disturb my peace of mind but they don’t have to control my peace.