Wonderful Peace

Psalm 120:6-7

My soul has dwelt too long

with one who hates peace.

I am for peace,

but when I speak, they are for war.

I was contemplating a question recently: "Casey, what do you want?" After a few days of pondering and prayer, I came to the conclusion that I wanted three things. I want love in my life, joy in my heart, and peace in my home.

Regarding that last, some may laugh with the knowledge that I am a warrior, or a fighter, whichever you prefer. I admit I like a good debate, and I have been known to willingly go into battle if I thought the cause was just. I'll stand up for what is right, and I won't back down if I know I'm right. But all things considered, I really do desire peace.

Unfortunately, peace isn't always dependent upon you. Remember that the Apostle Paul said, "As much as is possible with you, live in peace with all people." The Bible also says that if your ways please the Lord, He will cause even your enemies to be at peace with you. But what do you do when the source of strife is not an enemy, but a friend? There are people whom we love who do not want peace with us, but seem rather to prefer conflict.

Being in close and constant contact with someone who insists on being disagreeable has a way of taking away your peace. You want peace, but the other is for war. They may even say they don't want to fight or argue or disagree, that they want peace as well. But actions speak louder than words. When they only want to contradict your every word and counteract your every move; when they resist your every effort, they don't want peace. Probably all they want is quiet--from you. And as long as you're quiet, there will be peace. But speak up, even once, and it's war.

The Psalmist says he has dwelt too long with one who hates peace. Perhaps you can identify. When you long for peace, and peace is long in coming, that makes it sweeter when finally it happens. Always remember, Christ is our peace, and He will keep us in perfect peace when our mind is set upon Him. And instead of worrying, let us pray, and the peace of God that passes all understanding will guard our heart and our mind.

I want peace, and joy, and love. And I will have it, though at what cost I'm not sure. I'm just glad to find rest in the peace of the Lord.