What does it take to have peace?
I sit trying to collect my swirling thoughts. They tumble like fall leaves just out of my grasp as I attempt to gather them and carry them to the Father.
Peace alludes me. Maybe because gratitude escaped me this morning. Is there a connection? Rather than counting the gifts, I’m wrestling with thoughts and letting their emotional pull drag me this way and that. It never has ended well for me.
Why do I stay on this coaster?
Paul in his letter to the Colossians reminds them, and me today, to “let the peace of Christ rule in your heart, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)
Maybe it is less about chasing the out of control thoughts and more about shifting my focus towards gratitude. Pinning down, yet again, what gifts He has already placed into my hands. Letting His peace have the authority over me and be thankful.
Pulling out the pen and small notebook from the desk I begin to take dictation not from my emotions but out of obedience.
- seeing the first red leaf of fall on my walk this morning
- the warm sunlight on my face
- a morning hug from my teenager
The words come easier as I write and I can feel the emotions simmering, calming and cooling as they begin to submit to His authority. The peace creeps in as the feelings of “when and what if” become feelings of praise, gratitude and I am so undeserving.
Is this what it takes to live grateful?
Intentional counting, purposeful naming of every gift and submitting myself to His authority. He has been so good. He certainly has. My soul echoes.
So again today, what if we take pause to be intentional and praise the One who calls us to gratitude? What gifts will you take note of?
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I’ve began writing each day blessing I see from the day or throughout the day. It does help to take notice of those things and praise the Lord for His graciousness upon us.