We recently were presented with the opportunity to do what many dream of doing which is to live in Hawaii! This would be a work transfer to the Big Island of Hawaii, so it would be a completely paid for move! This was initially presented to us back in May, but because of some delays, etc., we weren’t actually offered the transfer until this month.
We had already scheduled a trip to Maui during this time and we started virtually every morning on our vacation with, “So, what are your thoughts on moving?” There were pros and cons we discussed. We prayed about it. We prayed and fasted about it. Ultimately, we turned it down.
It just came down to … where was the peace! Not just some feeling in our gut or list of pros vs. cons … where did we feel the peace of God? The peace of God is the legacy of Christian believers and comes as we walk in obedience to His will for our lives. Many Christians have peace with God but have never gone on to experience the peace of God in their lives. They are torn with anxieties and fears that destroy their spiritual stability and joy. Peace is a gift from God and the rightful legacy of all believers, but far too many do not enjoy it. The peace of God flows from a full, unhindered fellowship with Him who is our peace.
Here is a simple formula from the Bible for enjoying the peace of God:
Psalm 37:1–5 tells us: 1 Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong;
2 for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. 3 Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. 4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this
- Do not fret (verse 1)
- Trust in the Lord (verse 3)
- Delight yourself in the Lord (verse 4)
Philippians 4:6–7 tells us: 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
- Be anxious for nothing (verse 6)
- Be prayerful in everything (verse 6)
- Be thankful for anything (verse 6)
- And you will have peace (verse 7)
There are times we look at each other and wonder how we could pass up an opportunity like this, but the Peace of God led us to the decision which ultimately will be better for our whole family.
Father, thank You that we can come to you in EVERY situation and for EVERY decision. There is no big or small request for You and Your love for us is beyond measure.
Barnabas Man 