Finding Peace

    When you think about peace what do you think about?  I instantly go to a drama free life.  It is not actually a Biblical point of view, but it puts a smile on my face and I relax.  The scripture does say that all that is good comes from God, so I believe God knows what I need and allows my perspective to reduce my stress.  Peace is actually a sense of well-being and fulfillment no matter the circumstances.  It is supernatural dependence on God to where you feel His presence in the worst of situations.  It is not a promise of a drama free life, but it does help reduce the self-inflicted drama.

    God came to Israel in a vision to let Israel know that He would be with him when he moved to Egypt.  Israel was hesitant about leaving the promised land, but after the vision he had peace.  He packed up all he had and took his family to another foreign land.  His family consisted of 66 people at that time.  When they got to Egypt it became 70 with Joseph's family being included.  He sent Judah ahead to prepare for their arrival since he had proved himself trustworthy by bringing Benjamin back.  

    Israel was able to find peace when he had another major life change at such a late stage in his life.  Moves are stressful especially into a new culture.  He had peace because he responded to God openly and willingly.  He did not make excuses, bargains, or hide.  He went knowing he would die there, but his family would become great.  Joseph would be there to close his eyes.  Seeing Joseph again gave him peace to die, but he still had some time.  Joseph prepped the family on how to approach the Pharaoh. He was helping with the cultural barriers, so everyone could be more comfortable.  If you understand the culture it helps so much with acclimating.  

    Life can be hard.  It is always uncertain, even when we get comfortable and feel secure.  There is nothing new in life, only new experiences and feeling for you.  It can all become overwhelming or scary, but go to God with all of those fears and feelings.  He will help you work through them.  If you allow Him, He will give you peace in the midst of all the mystery of life.  What is happening now will end and something new will come.  That is part of life.  The question is how are you going to live your life: search and find peace or live in fear and stress.

Genesis 46