“Finding Peace In The Turmoil” by Joe Lalonde

Peace at times is elusive, and seems to be hiding

Normally peace is an easy thing for me to find. I’m able to walk away and put things behind me. Not so much lately.

There’s a choice I have to make and it’s driving me crazy. There’s been anger. Tears. Sadness.

The decision won’t be an easy one. Whichever way I choose to go. And this has taken away my peace.

The peace that was once so easy to find has now become elusive.

Here’s how I used to find peace:

Long runs

A relaxing walk along the beach

Taking time with my wife

Reading the Bible

With this current struggle I’m having to find new ways to find peace. The long runs and walks along the beach aren’t working. In fact, they’re actually making it worse.

So I’m struggling through this journey. Probably like you do at times. Not knowing what to do.

While the peace isn’t easy anymore, I’m able to find peace at times.

How?

I’m praying more: This is something I’m not good at. I’ll admit to that. It’s tough for me to sit down and pray to God. The distractions are easy and my mind wanders.

But I know this is a key to getting the peace that surpasses all understanding. When we talk to God, He’s able to speak back to us. He’s a comforter and friend. He knows our needs and He’s willing to meet them.

I’m talking with my wife: This current issue involves a situation that will affect both of us. And this has required more communication.

Discussing it with my wife has allowed me to see her side and get affirmation on what we need to do.

If you don’t have a wife (or husband), talk with a trusted friend. Share your struggles and grief with them. Let iron sharpen iron.

I’m crying: Yes, I said it. I’m crying more. There’s been long periods of time where my eyes never cried a tear.

Lately it seems the fountains have been opened and the water is flowing freely. While this may seem like it would add to the struggle and lack of peace, it has helped.

It’s allowed negative feelings to come out in an expressible way. Through the tears, pain is leaving and I’m learning it’s okay to let my feelings out.

Finding peace can be elusive at times. The ease of finding peace can go away. But we can still find peace.

When peace is hard to find, be willing to fight for it. Open up to others, cry out to God, and be willing to let the tears flow. Sometimes the most difficult things are the pathway to peace.

Question: How do you find peace in the turmoil? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below.

This is a guest post by Joseph Lalonde. He is a youth leader at Oak Crest Church of God and leadership blogger at JMLalonde.com. Joseph shares leadership tools and encourages you to become a better leader. Connect with him on Twitter or at his blog.