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Trials come in many different forms, and they result from many different causes. Lack of finances, health problems, turmoil at home, and various physical lusts can all be causes of great trials in the life of a Christian. Trials are different, but no matter what the cause, there is one common factor. The trials that we face disturb our sense of peace.

Being in a state of peace does not mean that there are no problems present. Having peace is to have a strong abiding faith instead of a sense of fear and desperation. For the Christian, being at peace comes from the assurance that God is in control and the knowledge that all things will eventually turn out for our good. “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28, KJV).Peace accompanies faith; when you have faith in God, you trust his word over what is physically perceived.

Having peace is very important; it is one of the components of the spiritual armor talked about in Ephesians chapter 6. “And with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.” (Ephesians 6:15, NIV). Being at peace gives us a firm foundation, and we will not be able to effectively fight the enemy without it.

Circumstances do not determine our level of peace, we do. “ Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27, KJV). Jesus has provides his peace, in the spiritual realm, but it is up to us to receive it. And, our Lord tells us that we have the responsibility of guarding our hearts from fear and discouragement. But how do we do this?

We can maintain our sense of peace when we turn our problems over to God. “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, KJV). God already knows what concerns us, but he wants us to communicate our problems to him. Many Christians suffer with various issue, but they do not pray about them. And other Christians pray about their problems, but they do not give them over to God.

We have to walk in faith and tell God about our problems. Once we tell our Father what is going on, we then turn the situation over to him and receive his peace. “Turn all your worries over to him. He cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7, NIRV). If we worry about situations in our lives, it is an indication that we do not trust God; so we have faith and trust that God is true to his word.

Consider your emotional state; if you lack peace of mind, God wants to help you. Turn your problems over to him, and stand on his word. Be assured that God has wonderful plans for your life, and in Christ, you will have the ultimate victory. “I know the plans I have in mind for you, declares the Lord; they are plans for peace, not disaster, to give you a future filled with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11, CEB).