There is deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil, but joy for those who promote peace. Luke 10:6
The peace spoken of here is not peace such as between nations, but the peace within our hearts. For me peace is the ultimate goal, and without peace there can be no joy. I have found the more I seek God and the more He fills me with His love, the more at peace I become. And as a result, the more at peace I become, the more I am able to enjoy the things around me.
I have come to a place in my life where things that happen, or do not happen for that matter, don’t upset me. Oh, sure, I get upset when my tee shot goes sailing out into the rough, but then, too, I don’t. I might yell something I shouldn’t as the ball flies into the deep grass, but almost instantly, I realize it doesn’t matter. This was not the case not so long ago.
But seriously, I’ve learned to roll with the punches, and not only that, I’ve learned no matter what comes my way, I can handle it and get through it. And many times, what appeared to be a setback or a problem turns out to work in my favor. (I can’t think of any instances where that’s true in my golf game.)
Yes, I’m getting there, and I can’t believe how much happier and full of joy I am since I began to realize God is in charge, and all my worrying and fretting does nothing to change what might lie ahead. God has a pretty good plan, and if we just let Him, He’ll take care of us.
Buy "Be Still" from WestbowPress.com
cheri said
let me be the first to say—that was very encouraging:)
charlesmashburn said
OH-KAY!
Binnie Ruth Seymour said
Thanks Charlie for a good beginning to start the day. Praise the Lord our real joy is not based upon circumstances, just as you mentioned your golf game. Joy is a measuring tool to help us keep our relationship with God where it needs to be. Your wife, Cheri emits the radiation of joy with her eyes and smile. Oh what a joy she is to you as you are to her. Health fails, or friends die, or things are not as we think they should be but God accomplishes His purpose by showing joy , certain happiness and security are to be found in Him alone……Blessings, Binnie Ruth Seymour..Spicewood, Texas
charlesmashburn said
Thanks for the great comments on the encouragement, Binnie. But, just so’s there isn’t any confusion, my wife is “Sherry”. My dear friend, who comments on here a lot is “Cheri”.
terri0729 said
Great post Charles, You know the peace and love you are enjoying now is just a foretaste of what’s to come?! Believe me when I say that, I KNOW. So glad that you’ve found it, don’t let anybody take it away from you!! Peace and love, Terri
charlesmashburn said
Yes, Ma’am, I know that! And my thinking on peace is, no one can take it from me unless I allow them to!
Mom said
And you have a peace bear too, not every one has one of those.
charlesmashburn said
I think mine’s the real deal!