Do you have a favorite place that ministers peace to your soul? Years ago, Jim and I had a place we loved to retreat, a pleasant 45-minute drive from our home. What drew us there? Well, there was an expanse of the Pacific Ocean and its never-ceasing surf. We loved to walk along its sandy shore.

After walking on the beach, there was charming sidewalk café beside a large pool that’s fed by a soothing waterfall where we would share a snack. There was also a cascading fountain in the center veranda where we enjoy our sandwich and coffee.

Still Waters

One day while I was thinking about our place, it struck me that water is the common denominator in all we love there. It calms us, inspires us, and moves us to focus on God’s larger plans for us.

As we look at God’s Word and His many provisions for us as His dear sheep, we discover an image of water in Psalm 23:2, “He leads [us] beside the still waters.”

He—the Shepherd—knows all about our need for peace and provides it. He made us, He planned our path, He knows our every challenge, and He provides the peace we need for fulfilling His will for our lives.

Leads—Our Shepherd leads us to the places where peace is plentiful, and He makes sure we attain it.

Still waters—He leads us beside still, restful waters of comfort.

Like the peace that comes from these still waters, you and I enjoy our hidden life with God, the private life we nurture in Him. Unseen by others, you and I are filled by God’s Spirit as we dwell in His presence and drink from His Word. In that holy mist He replenishes our dry souls until we are filled with His goodness.

Steady Stress

We know that we become dry on a steady diet of stress. We quickly become depleted and weary. We stagger, we stumble, we crumble, all because we need time beside still waters. Today, let’s follow God’s lead there. Find a quiet spot, alone, for 5-10 minutes and pray to God, asking Him for His peace. As you move your focus off of the hectic busyness and demands of life, and onto our Good Shepherd, you’ll find you are resting in His presence and peace.

Dear Lord, Thank You for offering me Your peace. Help me to receive it. Thank You. Amen.

In Putting On a Gentle and Quiet Spirit: 1 Peter, Elizabeth George takes readers through a thought-provoking study of Peter's teachings on handling trials and persecutions.

What place can I visit that reminds me of God’s peace?

Seek to enjoy your hidden life with God.