Peace that Passes Understanding

There are cliche phrases or certain scriptures that you have heard over and over growing up. It may have been in a song you learned in Sunday School or Nursery. Maybe it was in youth group a phrase the Pastor always said, but the meaning of it never really sunk in.

There was a song that I sung in Sunday School about "there's a peace that passing understanding, down in my heart, down in my heart, down in my heart." I can remember a specific Sunday we sang it with actions and everything. I loved it. I sang as loud as my little voice could go with all the joy in my heart rising up. Until later in my life though, did I really, truly, understand a peace that passes understanding.

We will walk through trials and struggles that life brings, and yet somehow, His peace will be there. I remember one time in particularly in which I had to make a decision; a big decision. In the natural it didn't look like a good idea and I was wanting to stay in my comfort zone. I cried out to God for wisdom to know what to do. I have found over and over that He will often lead by His peace. In that moment of crying out to Him, a peace that surpassed all understanding came over me. Somehow I could feel His presence so tangible, if I hadn't known better, I would have thought I could reach out and grab it. It was like I was wearing it like a garment. Understand, it is often not this tangible when I am led by the peace of God, but like I said, this was a big decision that I had to have confirmation on because of the confusion going on all around me.

In moments where confusion surrounds; the ache in your heart is louder than any other voice; your tears blind you to be able to see correctly; your heart is racing because you are stressed from all the pressures of work, stress or just life...beloved there is peace. A peace that passes all understanding, and it can only come from the Father.

Today I had one of those days of feeling overwhelmed. My chest hurt because of being so exhausted and overwhelmed. I was thinking about all that needed to be done and trying to make the most of every minute. It was an incredibly gorgeous day out today. One of those days that is perfect for a walk with the Lord. After reading for several hours, I decided I needed to get away and just be in His presence. I put my book down, despite my mind saying that I needed to keep working and reading. I went outside trying to put my mind to rest and just focus on Him.

As I walked I asked Him what was on His heart, what He had to say or share with me. All I heard was "Rest Bethany. Just rest." So I slowed my pace, walked through the prayer gardens and was quiet. The pressure in my chest left, and the sweetness of His presence came. I saw the campus in a new light. It was so beautiful and I became overwhelmed with gratitude to have the privilege and opportunity to study at such an amazing university. Memories of the last four years washed over my mind and I sat in awe of Him...so grateful. Grateful for my professors, my friends, my studies, saga - yes, saga. Everything. Being in His presence causes new and fresh perspective.

Get away with Him beloved. Let His peace that passes understanding wash over you.

Receive new and fresh perspective.

Rest your heart.

Psalm 33