5 Minutes of Hope

“Let’s go to the street fair up in Queens, New York,” they said. “You’ll have a blast up there at the street fair in the Queens,” they said.

May I remind you I’m a country boy? Used to WIDE open spaces and REALLY fond of breathing … AIR. Well, we spilled out of the SUV and started our trek toward the festivities. Why oh why did I EVER let them talk me into this? Have you ever felt claustrophobic?

There were street fair attendees and CROWDS of people EVERYWHERE! This country bumpkin was out of his element AND unbelievably overwhelmed!

Hello friend and welcome to 5 Minutes of Hope.

Today’s topic is: Peace and Contentment in a World of Clamor and Chaos.

Things a tad busy in your neck of the woods, dear friend? The roller coaster ride of life taking you along at breakneck speed? Slow down.

I’m not normally one given to anxiety and panic, but I felt compelled to GET OFF the street at this street fair and literally walk behind the concession stands before I went into a full-blown panic mode. Slow down!

Where is peace and contentment found?

We plan an event. We mark our calendars. We count down the days with anticipation. SURELY that upcoming concert will be life changing. We can’t WAIT for vacation to start. With longing we look forward to SOMETHING that will bring us peace and contentment.

Charles Stanley said, and I quote, “From the world’s perspective, there are many places you can go to find comfort. But there is only one place you will find a hand to catch your tears and a heart to listen to your every longing. True peace comes only from God.”

A crowded life can be problematic. A crowded mind can be overwhelming. It seems like a lot of folks are sensing anxiety these days and many are not accustomed to such challenges.

Where is peace and contentment found?

Jesus said, “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.”

Matthew 11:28-30

A preacher who was jailed for his faith and his antics wrote … while behind bars, mind you: “Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, Offering your faith filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life, then God‘s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding will guard your heart and mind through Jesus Christ.

Philippians 4:6,7

♫ Look to the Lamb of God, for He alone is able to save you …

♫ turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full into His wonderful face …

♫ Peace, peace, wonderful peace, coming down from the Father above …

Let the noise rise, let the clamor and the chaos chime … I’m trading all my panic and anxiety for God’s peace and assurance.

Mighty God, thank you for the Son of God and the Word of God which promise peace to the child of God. We RUN to YOU. In the matchless Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, we pray. Amen

Friend, may you be FILLED with Hope today and share it with others.