PEACE IN THE STORM

PEACE IN THE STORM

Dr. Virgie Cantorna

Peace is not the absence of a storm; it is the presence of God within it.

• Personal storms are part of life. Will you choose panic or peace?

• Remember Who Is in Your Boat: God is always with you. Find the helpers. It's important to recognize the support system around you. Identify the people who are there to help and support you during difficult times. These could be family members, friends, mentors, or even professional counselors.

• Shift from Panic to Prayer: When faced with a storm, it's natural to feel panic. However, shifting your focus from panic to prayer can provide a sense of calm and perspective. Prayer can be a powerful tool to find peace and reassurance. The simplest prayer is to call out, “God.”

• Let God's Word Be Your Anchor: Turning to biblical verses can offer strength and comfort. Some key verses include:

• Jeremiah 31:3: "I have loved you with an everlasting love."

• Psalm 46:1: "God is my refuge and strength."

• Matthew 19:26: "...with God all things are possible."

• Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."

• Romans 8:31: "If God is for us, who can be against us?"

• Isaiah 40:31: "They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint."

• Embrace the Power of Gratitude: Practicing gratitude can shift your focus from what is going wrong to what is going right. It helps in recognizing and appreciating the positive aspects of life, even in the midst of a storm.

1. Gratitude Journaling: Take a few minutes each day to write down three to five things you are grateful for. This practice can help you focus on the positive aspects of your life and cultivate a sense of appreciation.

2. Gratitude Walks: Take a walk outside and observe the beauty of nature. As you walk, think about the things you are grateful for and appreciate the world around you.

3. Mindful Appreciation: Practice being present in the moment and appreciating the small things in life. This could be enjoying a cup of coffee, watching a sunset, or spending time with loved ones. These practices can help you cultivate a grateful mindset and find peace even in the midst of life's storms.