4 Keys to Peace in 2017
Have you ever been in a place in your life where at every turn there was chaos, confusion and hurt? No matter which way you turned, it just wasn’t working out? This can be so frustrating and depressing. Yes, I fully understand this feeling. But recently, I’ve come to learn that there are only four things I need to worry about. The list is not long, and it is very clear in helping all of us cope with whatever issues are affecting or infecting our lives at this time. As Christians, parents and spouses, these four keys guarantee success in the end:
(1) FOLLOW ME. This is a direct order from Jesus Christ that should clear up any questions we may have concerning the direction we need to go. Do what you know is right. Is your life pleasing to the Lord?
(2) LOVE THEM. This one is sometimes tough. But once again, we are not given an option or choice. We must love everyone, including our enemies.
(3) FORGIVE THEM. Unless we want to stay in an emotionally damaging prison from which there is no escape, we must forgive. It does not matter if they ask for forgiveness or not. The Lord says, “Forgive them.”
(4) HE WILL TAKE CARE OF THE REST. It is not our responsibility, job or calling to fix someone else. If you and I do the first three listed above, then we are allowing God the opportunity to “show off” as he reassuringly calms our heart, mind, spirit and soul with the words “I’ve got this.” Let Him!
Please do not try to make things more complicated than they are. Let the simplicity of these four keys be your path to peace. TRUST HIM!
John Croyle, Founder, Big Oak Ranch
Author, Who You Are/Defying the Circumstances that Define Us, Bringing Out the Winner in Your Child, The Two Minute Drill to Manhood and Raising a Princess, www.bigoak.org
