The Daily Devotional
Sunday, December 8, 2024
Peace in the Midst of Storms
Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Introduction
Today, as we remember the life of a brother who would have turned 68, we find ourselves seeking comfort in the Apostle Paul's words to the Philippians. In a world filled with turmoil and struggles, these verses call us to a different kind of engagement—one of prayer, gratitude, and peace.
Reflection
The pain of losing a loved one, especially under the shadow of addiction, is a profound storm in the sea of life. My brother's struggle with substance abuse, leading to his untimely death at 40, often brings sorrow to our hearts. Yet, in this Advent season, we are reminded of the peace that God promises, a peace that is not as the world gives, marked by the absence of trouble, but as the Lord gives—deep, abiding, and transcendent.
Consider the story of a small boat caught in a sudden and violent storm on the sea. As waves threaten to overwhelm it, all seems lost. Yet, in the midst of chaos, the presence of a calm, steadfast captain brings hope and peace to the frightened passengers. This captain doesn't immediately calm the storm, but his presence assures them they are not alone and that they will reach the shore safely.
Application
As we reflect on the struggles faced by those we love, let us bring our fears, our pain, and our memories to God in prayer with thanksgiving. By doing so, we allow God’s peace, which surpasses all understanding, to guard our hearts and minds. Today, I encourage you to remember the lives of those lost not just with grief but with a thankful heart for the moments shared, trusting in God’s comforting presence.
Conclusion
In this season of Advent, as we contemplate peace, let us embrace the peace Christ offers. It is a peace that persists through all trials, comforts us in loss, and heals our brokenness. It is the peace we so desperately need as we remember those no longer with us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, on this day, when I remember my brother’s would-have-been 68th birthday, I seek Your peace. I lay before You the burdens of past pains and the echoes of loss, asking You to envelop us with Your peace that surpasses all understanding. Help us to trust in Your presence and find comfort in the knowledge that through every storm, You are with us. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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