“Peanuts” was a famous cartoon strip that may just be the most prolific cartoon of all time. It made “Charlie Brown” and “Snoopy” household names. Although they are the two most famous characters in the group, there was a lesser known kid named Pig-Pen. If you’re familiar with the cartoon, I’ll bet you’re familiar with Pig-Pen.
Pig-Pen was constantly surrounded by a cloud of dust and dirt. No matter what he seemed to do, he was dirty. If he washed, it took only a few moments before he was dirty again. He embraced it and the people around him did too.
There are real people sort of like Pig-Pen, except instead of being surrounded by dirt, they’re surrounded by drama. Do you know someone like this? Is it you?
God’s design doesn’t guarantee happiness. It isn’t a vaccine for drama, hurt, loss, or pain. However, as we grow closer and closer to God, our actions will reflect it. We’ll choose forgiveness over revenge. We’ll choose kindness instead of apathy. We’ll give grace instead of punishment.
Slowly and surely, this new path leads us to righteousness. That righteousness will bring more peace (and less drama) into our lives.
Isaiah 32:17 says:
And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
This is really important. Our world is crazy. It is sinful. People are broken. But when you consistently choose the path of righteousness, you’ll see a change. You will change and those closest to you will change. Instead of reacting to the world, you’ll be more in control of your thoughts and actions. When you are guided by the Lord you’ll make better decisions. Scripture will teach you more and make more sense to you.
Maybe it’s been a long time since you’ve felt stable. Maybe you’ve forgotten what it’s like to have clear thoughts. Perhaps you don’t even know what it would feel like to not be driven from one stressor to the other.
Righteousness will give you peace. You can hear yourself thing. Finally, when you notice this difference, you will trust in the Lord. Following Him and seeking His glory brings you peace.
Let’s pray a prayer of righteousness and peace.
Dear loving and gracious Father,My life is chaotic. I’m stressed. I’m broken. Secretly I fear that the next move I make will be the one that starts an avalanche of chaos.God I know that your way is the right way. Please fill me with your Holy Spirit. Comfort me and hold me close to you. Teach me your ways. When I read your word, help it to make sense to me. Lead me down the path of righteousness.I want to make better decisions. I want to help others. Please take my burdens so that I’m not going from one fire to the next. I want the path of righteousness.You are the only grantor of true peace. I trust in You alone God. Please give my heart rest and give my mind clarity. Allow me to be still in your presence. I trust you and want to be closer to you, amen.