by Jordy van Gaalen

And Be Thankful

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“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

Peace is a word that has been on my heart and in my prayers quite a bit this year. When I yearn for peace, I often want the circumstance to change. But often God gives us the peace that surpasses the circumstances. He gives us the peace to walk through the trials and the storms, in full trust and confidence. The wind and the waves may be raging, but God gives us a holy peace. With our eyes above the waves, that peace can be ours to hold and also to give. 

We are told to allow the peace of God to rule our hearts. Not our fears or worries or pain or shame. The holy spirit’s peace is the one who guides our hearts. The definition of rule is “to exert control, direction, or influence on.” Therefore, the peace of Christ, which comes from trusting in our Savior and fully leaning into Him, is what should be influencing us. How easy is it to let fears and regret and anxiousness guide our direction or decisions! But that is not who God called us to be. God has given us all the tools we need.

“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

This verse ends with “And be thankful.” Giving thanks reminds us of God’s gifts and miracles. No matter the darkest of times, there is always something to give praise and thanks for. Because God sent His Son to walk among us, die for us and save us. We now have eternal life with Him. No matter what we face on this Earth, that fact will never change. That right there is something we can give thanks and praise for, always. 

When we give thanks, we shine a light into the darkness. Jesus gave thanks to His Father in Heaven BEFORE the miracles happened:

“Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them.”
Luke 9:16a NIV

To be thankful gets our minds off of our grumblings and out of our selfish mindset. It reminds us of the goodness and faithfulness of Christ. In rejoicing and praising God and giving thanks for the many, many wonderful things He has done sets our hearts in a place of heavenly peace. 

Copyright Holy Cross Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado