A dear brother in the Lord once shared with me that one of his favorite experiences is diving beneath the water. He fondly recounted the otherworldly silence and calmness he experiences and the breathtaking beauty of an undersea world. I wholeheartedly agree. During my recent vacation in Palawan, I was exploring the reefs surrounding several tropical islands. As I submerged, only the soft soothing rhythmic sounds of bubbles were audible. I stopped swimming and allowed my body to drift. Alone in my thoughts with no distractions, I wanted this moment to last forever. My mind was physically and spiritually thousands of miles away from the cares and concerns of my life.
The last few months had been very trying. I was preoccupied with many pressing issues in my company. It had strained relationships both with my employees and professional colleagues and had leaked over into my family life. I had not been sleeping well and I was constantly tired and worn out by my workload. Submerged in this idyllic setting, I was thankful for the peace but lamented that it was only temporary.
When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul.
Psalms 94:19 (ESV)
We all seek peace in our lives. However, sometimes we substitute pleasure for this peace and joy. Some attempt to find it through escapism, anesthetizing their concerns and pains with drugs or alcohol. Others find distractions like a hobby or travel to divert their attention from their responsibilities. Christian apologist and evangelist, Ravi Zacharias, wrote, “All pleasure must be bought at a price. Pleasure is a means not an end. Joy should be the greater end. God is the source of all good pleasure.”
God knows about all of the cares and concerns of our hearts, even before we are completely aware of them. He can bring complete peace to our life when we completely submerge our soul within His Holy Spirit. All we need to do is be still and listen to His Voice.
Be still, and know that I am God…
Psalms 46:10 (ESV)
Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.
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