My favorite question to ask people is, "What is the most important thing you have learned in life thus far?" The reason it's my favorite question is that I learn a great deal from the answers. The most profound answers I've heard are from teenagers. It's probably because they still live by love and are not as tainted by the world as adults may be.
The most important thing that I have learned in life thus far is that God is real and God is the truth. God is love. Therefore, love is the truth. We can and do learn this truth by doing the will and work of God.
"Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent." John 6:28-29, Holy Bible, KJV.
When we believe in Jesus, we behave as if we genuinely believe. Discipleship comes through becoming like Jesus. As we become more like Him daily, we do the will and work of God, which leads to peace and strength. This peace and strength comes from understanding and wisdom.
The world will teach and convince us of fear. Fear is the foundation of stress, which often leads to drama and emotional turmoil. Drama is the negative emotions we feel when we are afraid. The world teaches drama, fear, and stress. Jesus teaches faith, peace, and strength through understanding and wisdom. Therefore, drama, fear, and stress are the great misunderstandings of life.
If I could help a person prevent stress, it would be by convincing them to cling to Christ the way they cling to their drama. The average person may or may not be aware of what drama or stress is, as it may be a very regular part of their life. The best way to remedy this misunderstanding is to recognize that negative emotions can be stressful, while positive emotions are a gift from God.
Another uncommonly known fact in this wonderful world is that our chronic negative emotions are habits formed from our habitual focus. We are habitual beings, and we tend to focus on doubt, fear, and worry or on calm, confidence, and faith, depending on our mood at the moment and the subject. For example, some people worry about money but are confident in their health and relationships, while others worry about their health and relationships but are confident in their financial situation. Or a person may be fearful about their health but remain faithful in their relationships.
The great news is we have the freedom to choose what we habitually practice and, therefore, become. When we choose to cling to Christ and discipleship rather than our drama, negative emotions, and stress, we find peace and strength with God from understanding and wisdom. This wisdom is why I always recommend meditating on a memorized scripture.
If you are experiencing turmoil and have for some time, peace and strength may come gradually, not overnight. If you want more peace and strength, the best way is to fill your mind with God, replacing all other thoughts that cause despair.
Start by meditating on the scripture given above as you memorize it. We have a choice! We can choose discipleship or drama. Choosing discipleship is taking responsibility for your future and life. Taking responsibility leads to God's peace and strength.
Praying my words help you find peace and strength in God if you need it!
Take care,
