Despite your brokenness, wouldn’t you like to experience the kind of peace that others envy?

Wouldn’t you like to feel a peace that defies understanding, no matter what’s going on in your marriage or family?

Even with everything happening in our country and around the world, wouldn’t you love to have incredibly bold peace?

Think about the last high school reunion or family holiday you attended. Wasn’t it fun to spend time with people you hadn’t seen in years? Yet, at the same time, perhaps you felt a little insecure – especially if you’ve been through some dark seasons.

When we’re at an event like this, we’re tempted to compare ourselves to others’ accomplishments and their seemingly perfect lives. Or (especially for us ladies) to wonder how she managed to stay so skinny or look so young?

But what if, during the years between our get-togethers, we allowed God to transform our lives so profoundly that our conversations and perspectives radiated a joy and peace that was winsome and desirable?

Imagine the impact it would have, especially on those who understand the struggles we’ve endured. Imagine others recognizing qualities that matter more than appearance and achievements.

Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV) says,

Do not be anxious 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.

I’m not suggesting we start preaching at our social or family gatherings this Thanksgiving and Christmas. I do suggest we live in a way that reflects our faith.

As we learn to bring every situation to our heavenly Father with gratitude for His generous love, something beautiful takes place: His peace settles over us. A visible peace that shows even when the conversation turns to community or world events.

We aren’t pretending or giving the false impression that our life is without pain, even sometimes devastating pain. On the contrary, we’re sharing truthfully as someone who knows we’re not alone in our circumstances. A person who knows God loves us and is at work in our lives.

Maybe instead of stressing about being the most successful or the best looking at our next holiday family gathering or class reunion – or joining conversations about how the world is falling apart – we can become the envy of everyone by cultivating a faith that offers a peace beyond understanding.

A peace so profound that others will want it too.

What about you?

I’d love to hear your thoughts about this post. (Your comment might also benefit others.)

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