Replace Stress With Peace by Bridget A. Thomas

Stress is a reality of life. We all will encounter stress from time to time. Unfortunately we often allow stress to get the best of us. But we don’t have to. We can replace stress with peace by using five specific Bible verses which will remind us that God is by our side. And the first letter of each of the Bible verses spell out PEACE, making them easy to remember!

“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

Jesus gave us a gift of peace. But this is something we quickly and easily forget when we are faced with trouble. The mountains in front of us will seem so immense, that they overshadow our peace. Remembering that Jesus gave us this gift, and choosing to accept it when we are facing obstacles, will help us have peace in the midst of stress.

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4

No matter what we are facing, we can remember that the Lord is our Shepherd. This means He is there for us at all times, He guides us down the right path, He protects us from danger, and He makes sure we have everything we need.

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7

We will all face difficulties when we are on this earth. But we don’t have to handle them on our own. We can hand them over to God. When we allow God to handle our worries for us, we can have a peace that transcends all understanding. This makes me picture a person standing in the midst of chaos. Yet while there is pandemonium all around them, they have peace, as they stay anchored to God. How amazing!

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7

This is a reminder that we can cast all, not some, all of our anxieties on Jesus. And what a beautiful promise that He cares for us. I love thinking about the fact the King of kings cares for us. This shows how loving He is. And this means that He will want to help us in stressful times.

“Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:30-31

When we place our hope in the Lord, we can face anything. Our troubles might tire us. But God will renew our strength. He will hold us up and help us overcome. But we have to remember to face life in His strength, not our own strength.

I hope these five Bible verses help you to replace stress with peace. God is a faithful and loving Father. He is always there. We can turn to Him and seek His help with whatever we are facing. No matter what lies on the road ahead, remember that God is with you.

© 2020 Bridget A. Thomas

Photo by Bridget A. Thomas