We all want more peace in our lives. There is chaos all around us: in the world, in our communities, and for some even in our own families. The Prince of Peace provides the peace we need when our world seems to be falling apart. C.S. Lewis observed, “God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing.”
This Easter you can focus on eight principles that will help you find peace in your life, the peace that Jesus Christ offers. These principles are faith, compassion, forgiveness, repentance, gratitude, God’s Word/Scripture, prayer, and hope.
Years ago my sister-in-law stitched a saying that I love,
It goes along with one of my favorite scriptures, “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” (Philippians 4:11) We have been blessed with so much! I firmly believe ingratitude and discontentment is a tool of the devil to get us to covet and always want for more when in reality we have enough and to spare.
It seems we have two choices when faced with difficulties (one might argue when things are going well too). We can either turn to God or turn away from Him. How do we turn to Him? By expressing our gratitude for what He has provided.
My friend, Diane, is a tremendous example to me of one who turned to gratitude when faced with a hard trial. When her husband was unemployed she posted weekly updates on Facebook that she called “Miracles in the Mayhem.” It was amazing to see her share the many small ways her family had been blessed through her husband’s unemployment. She is a great example to me of looking for what she already has and recognizing the small miracles that take place in her life. Diane taught me it is in the acknowledgement of blessings that miracles occur.
Gratitude does precede the miracle. Jesus Christ also taught us that. When He fed the 4,000 the scriptures say,
And [Jesus] commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground.
And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.
Now notice the miracle that occurred.
And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full.
Jesus gave thanks for what He had and it was multiplied.
One of the greatest examples of miracles occurring after the giving of thanks happened at the last supper. As Jesus sat with the apostles He knew He would soon have to suffer for our sins and hang on the cross providing that miraculous atonement and yet, He still gave thanks,
And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you. (Luke 22:19-20)
What an example He set for us to follow! How often do we give thanks before an experience we know will be hard and difficult for us? How often do we express gratitude while in the midst of a trial?
We are promised, “And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more.” (D&C 78:19) The key is to receive all things – the good with the bad, the bitter with the sweet, the joys with the sorrows.
Be grateful. Express gratitude.
I created this Ultimate Gratitude List Kit to help you see all the things God has already blessed you with. Download it below.
Part of the kit focuses on people in your life, family and friends and acquaintances who have made an impact on you. After you complete those pages take some time to handwrite thank you notes to each one detailing why you are grateful for them. Imagine how it will brighten their day and bring a smile to their face and, even, a little peace to their heart.
Learn more about the principles of peace taught by the #PrinceofPeace at Mormon.org.
Find more posts and printables to teach your family about the principles of peace at The Red Headed Hostess!
Find more Easter ideas and crafts that focus on Jesus Christ here.
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