It Starts Small

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¹⁵ And let the peace of Christ, to which you were also called in one body, rule your hearts. And be thankful.
Colossians 3:15

²⁷ “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your heart be troubled or fearful.
John 14:27

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As we close this transformative study and journey through conquering anxiety with the profound truth of God, we turn our hearts toward living in the magnificent peace of Christ. This peace is not ephemeral or merely a feeling; it is a deep-seated state of being that Jesus has generously bestowed upon us. Paul passionately encourages us to let the peace of God reign in our hearts. This peace should be the guiding principle in our thoughts and actions, steering us toward gratitude and unity in the vibrant body of Christ.

Jesus passionately reassures us by highlighting the profound difference between His eternal peace and the fleeting, often superficial peace that the world provides. His peace is not merely a balm for our wounds; it is a powerful force that envelops us, calming our deepest fears and anxieties with unmatched comfort.

When we wholeheartedly allow divine peace to take its rightful place in our hearts, we are powerfully placing our trust in Jesus’ promises and unwavering strength. This peace soars above our circumstances, offering an unshakeable foundation even when the world feels like it’s spinning out of control. Each day, we must fervently choose to let this peace reign supreme in our hearts, bravely rising above the anxieties and worries that seek to seize our minds.

Reflection:

Consider where you can truly let the profound peace of Christ take a stronger hold in your life! Are there specific areas where anxiety tends to dominate and weigh you down? Invite Jesus into those parts of your heart and life with fervor and openness! Remember, His peace is not merely the fleeting assurances of the world; it is a steadfast, divine peace that fiercely guards your heart and mind. As you move through your day, embrace thankfulness and allow this transformative peace to ignite your thoughts and actions. In doing so, you’ll discover that anxiety loses its crippling grip, empowering you to live more fully in the incredible grace and peace of Christ!

Deeper Reflection #1: Colossians 3:15

Colossians 3:15 says: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

Here are prompts focused on making peace the “umpire” of your internal world:

• The “Umpire” Check: The word “rule” in this verse refers to an umpire or referee. Looking at the “game” of your thoughts today, which ones are “out of bounds” (anxious/fearful) and which ones are “safe” (peaceful)? How can you let Peace make the final call?
• The Invitation to “Let”: The verse says to “let the peace of Christ rule.” This implies that peace is already available, but we have to allow it in. What is one “door” in your heart that you’ve kept locked shut with worry? What happens if you crack it open just an inch today?
• Defining the “Call”: You were “called to peace.” If peace is your actual job description today, how does that change the way you approach your to-do list or a difficult conversation?
• The Gratitude Circuit-Breaker: The verse ends with “And be thankful.” Anxiety and gratitude struggle to exist in the same space. List five “small, boring” things you are thankful for right now. How does shifting your focus to these things change the “temperature” of your anxiety?
• The “One Body” Connection: Anxiety often makes us feel isolated and lonely. Who is one person in your “body” (friend, family, church) that you can reach out to today? How does sharing a burden with someone else help Christ’s peace “rule” more effectively?

Deeper Reflection #2: John 14:27

Colossians 3:15 says: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

Here are prompts focused on making peace the “umpire” of your internal world:

• The “Umpire” Check: The word “rule” in this verse refers to an umpire or referee. Looking at the “game” of your thoughts today, which ones are “out of bounds” (anxious/fearful) and which ones are “safe” (peaceful)? How can you let Peace make the final call?
• The Invitation to “Let”: The verse says to “let the peace of Christ rule.” This implies that peace is already available, but we have to allow it in. What is one “door” in your heart that you’ve kept locked shut with worry? What happens if you crack it open just an inch today?
• Defining the “Call”: You were “called to peace.” If peace is your actual job description today, how does that change the way you approach your to-do list or a difficult conversation?
• The Gratitude Circuit-Breaker: The verse ends with “And be thankful.” Anxiety and gratitude struggle to exist in the same space. List five “small, boring” things you are thankful for right now. How does shifting your focus to these things change the “temperature” of your anxiety?
• The “One Body” Connection: Anxiety often makes us feel isolated and lonely. Who is one person in your “body” (friend, family, church) that you can reach out to today? How does sharing a burden with someone else help Christ’s peace “rule” more effectively?

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