6 Simple Ways To Remain At Peace In Times Of Transition

The scene of life is changing. Additionally, there is an unsettling feeling that we have transitioned into a time and a season that biblical scholars and theologians alike are referring to as the last days.

The rocky transition we are faced with is unprecedented, and is gradually stripping away our peace of mind and the familiar comforts we once enjoyed.

Not until a few months ago, the latter part of 2013 to be more precise had I ever heard about Chickungunya (pronunciation: chik-en-gun-ye) – a mosquito borne viral illness. The most common symptoms are fever and severe joint pains but other symptoms include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling or rash.

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) outbreaks have occurred in countries in Africa, Asia and Europe and the Indian and Pacific Oceans. But recently in 2013, Chikungunya was found for the first time in the Americas and the Caribbean Islands. It is rampant in Caribbean Islands with the greatest impact felt in Jamaica, and to a lesser extent Antigua and Virgin Islands (British) The sad thing is, there is no vaccine to prevent it or medicine to treat it.

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” ~ John 16:33

It’s Far More Than a Great Trial

Worse than Chickungunya, the earth is plagued currently with the likes of ISIS and Boko Haram insurgents who continue to wage a bloody campaign in the Middle East and northeast Nigeria respectively.

The ongoing atrocities, violence, torture, beheading, crucifixions, fresh abductions and reserving young virgin girls as a prize for the ISIS barbarian fighters have raised doubts about a resolution and have caused many to question:

Will we ever see peace these parts of the world or are ISIS and Boko Haram terrorists group even capable of making peace so that people can return to live a life of normalcy? You might want to provide the answer to this question in the comment section.

On another front, in the West African countries of Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) continues to claim countless of lives. The outbreak of 2014 is unprecedented and the worst in history. Ebola has spread at an alarming rate, and has ravaged and devastated entire families and towns.

It is out of man’s control. It has become his worst nightmare while it escalates panic and fear in the lives of many around the world. There is no vaccine and no cure for this monster biological tsunami. 

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” ~ Isaiah 40:31

6 Simple Ways to Remain at Peace

“Thou will keep in perfect peace the mind stayed on thee, for he confideth in thee.” ~ Isaiah 26:3 Darby Translation

This bible verse from the prophet Isaiah is a sterling reminder of the promise of comfort to those who choose to keep their mind focused upon God even when we find ourselves in the midst of turmoil, chaos and transition.

As unsettling as the feelings may be, we do not grow from a place of comfort and neither can we safely say we have learned the lessons without going through experiences in life. So how can we remain at peace?

1.) Focus on God, not the problem or the promise

Shifting your focus from the promise and the problems allow you to acknowledge the omnipotence of God Almighty and His presence with you always, even in times of distress. Surrender your all to Him and in the end realize that He will work things in your favor and His blessings will manifest in your life.

2.) Stop complaining  

Complaining has never solved a problem and it makes your life more miserable. What we are faced with right now, we are helpless to change anything in our own strength. Embrace and recognize the change and transition and its imminence as what was foretold long ago.

3.) Give thanks  

Start each new day with gratitude because in everything we ought to give thanks. Be thankful for even the tiniest of blessings in your life that far too often are taken for granted. Celebrate the smallest of victory and for that person who survived the deadly Ebola.

4.) Be open minded 

Being open minded is a key component to the transition that is taking place in the world today. Maintaining an open mind and an open heart not only helps us to focus better on finding the right solutions but it keeps us grounded, it keeps our mind in peace and present new opportunities with which we can face the challenges.

5.) Be Patient

It is important to have patience in the process of finding solutions and fixes to the problems. A lasting solution will not come overnight. A vaccine may not be here for Ebola until 2015. We may be in it for the long haul so guard your heart and mind, remain optimistic.

6.) Pray without ceasing

Prayer is among the most powerful spiritual weapon that any believer have at their disposal to use in times of great trial and tribulation. God answers our prayers when we pray in faith believing that whatever we ask of Him it shall be done.

Over to you

What are some of the ways that you find peace and keep the peace in your life? I would love to hear your thoughts. Add them in the comment form below and please share this post others on social media.

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