~ BEWARE OF PEACE STEALERS
We all have our peace-stealers—things that regularly upset us—and it is important for us to know what they are. So we can be prepared and have a strategy against peace-stealers.
We should ask ourselves:
What kinds of situations steal my peace?
Which people in my life irritate me most?
What is it about them that annoys me?
We should ask these questions because being aware of what bothers us can help us avoid being upset and help us not fall into the same trap over and over again.
While we might know in our hearts that Christ is our ultimate Peace, why is it that peace in our everyday life can feel so elusive? Why do we feel robbed at the end of each day, when we want to experience rest and find that there is none?
There are probably hundreds of things that can rob our peace, but here are some top peace-stealers and the biblical antidotes ,:
Worry – really is when we do not trust that God will take care of our needs.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phil 4:6-7 NIV
Fear – When we feel insecure about our safety, livelihood or image.
”For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].” -2 Timothy 1:7 AMP
Shame – This is when we feel embarrassed about a situation.
I prayed to the LORD, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears. Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces. In my desperation I prayed, and the LORD listened; he saved me from all my troubles. For the angel of the LORD is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him. Psalm 34:4-7 NIV
Guilt – When we feel responsible for a disappointing situation.
There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1
Regret – When we wish for a deferent outcome in a situation.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 NIV
Pride – When we nurse an attitude of being better that others.
In our flesh, we all struggle with pride in life! We have to just let go of our pride and move forward in God’s plan. In fact, the Bible goes so far as to warn us that God hates the sin of pride and will discipline the proud!
Proverbs 8:13 says, “To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.”
Pride leads to a downfall, as highlighted in Proverbs 16:18, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
Let us not see ourselves as “wise in our own eyes” but let us become humble and willing to learn from God and others!
Busyness – Is the “in” thing these days. Most people are always busy. In fact, it’s “fashionable “ to say you are busy.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matt 11:28-30 NIV
If you struggling to find and keep peace? It may be time to put Jesus back on the throne of your heart. It’s time to see these peace-stealers for what they really are: false idols we’ve put our trust in. It’s time to turn away from them and give proper place to the One who is greater than any of it.
Romans 8:6 NIV tells us that “The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”
Jesus said Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27 NIV
NOW LET US PRAY.
Jesus, Prince of peace, we thank You for the peace that You gave to us through Your faithful work on the cross.
Help us to discern those things in our lives that are peace-stealers, and give us the courage to eliminate them from our lives so that we can draw closer to You, the source of our peace. Thank You for another day in life. in Jesus’ mighty name, I pray. Amen 
Have a blessed day 
