Hold On To Your Peace

Before moving to Los Angeles, I was a working mother who commuted to and from Manhattan via the LIRR (Long Island Rail Road). Over time, during the hour long commute home, a group of us women would meet and hash out our days. 

Inevitably the conversation would turn to our relationships. I sometimes shared something that was happening in my marriage, and the overwhelming consensus was that it was not a big deal compared to what they felt they were experiencing.

I noticed that although our struggles were all real struggles, many of the other women’s struggles seemed monumental to them.  I wondered why we were experiencing such different levels of distress, and realized it’s because I had a secret weapon, tying back to an old hymn I’ve carried in my heart.

It goes like this:

What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear.

What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer.

Oh, what peace we often forfeit, Oh, what needless pain we bear.

All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.

For me, I decided I was not going to forfeit my peace or carry needless pain. 

How?

I always start by verbalizing my thoughts, feelings, and anxieties to God. Somehow this simple act of getting out what bothers me gives me peace. And with peace guiding me —  rather the Holy Spirit guiding me, I am able to navigate whatever is in front of me.

It turns out that the peace that comes from God can provide a peace in your marriage that defies expectations. “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7 ESV).”

Sometimes what we feel isn’t as difficult as what we’ve made it up to be in our minds. Most of the time, bringing our frustrations, confusion, and anxieties to God first, calms the storm within us and provides the calm navigation we need to see it clearly. 

Let’s be wives who call out and run to our Father first.

Remember

• God cares about you – Psalms 119:76
• God cares about your relationships – John 13:34, 35
• With Him, you have an opportunity to be at peace – John 14:27

Wife Step: Take a moment to talk to God about everything that’s on your mind. Then be amazed at His peace regardless of your circumstance. John 14:27

Nylse Esahc is a Christian wife and a mother of four who loves life and inspiring others. She recently published her first book – My Best Marriage Advice. She likes to have fun but is very clear on who she is and Whose she is. A prolific thinker, she blogs to encourage others from a Christian perspective at www.lifenotesencouragement.com. She can be found online on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.