Serving Through the Storm

"The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you." - Philippians 4:9

Sometimes, the key to finding peace isn’t just thinking about it—it’s doing something about it. Peace isn’t passive. It requires intentional action. When anxiety threatens to take over, we need to do more than dwell on the "why" of our circumstances. We need to take active steps toward peace.

There’s a phrase I love: "Stop chewing and start doing." Sometimes we overanalyze what’s going on in our lives—Why this? Why that? Why me?—and we get stuck. But instead of getting lost in analysis, Paul encourages us to look around and ask, What are the things I know I’m called to do?

Paul modeled this so well. Even in prison, he didn’t let his chains stop him from fulfilling his purpose. He shared the gospel with the guards. He kept writing letters to encourage the churches. He didn’t focus on his limitations; he focused on his calling. Paul’s actions remind us that when we shift our focus outward—when we serve others and keep doing what God has called us to do—we find peace.

Peace comes when we stop analyzing and start acting. Maybe for you, it’s limiting how much negative news you take in. Maybe it’s choosing to serve someone in need. Maybe it’s practicing gratitude for what you already have. Think about this: peace is often found in our purpose. When we actively pursue the things God has called us to, we experience His peace in the process.

So, what can you do today? Who can you serve this week? Sometimes, the best way to calm the storm in your own heart is to help calm the storm in someone else’s life. As Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”

Reflection Question: What practical steps can you take today to actively pursue peace in your life, and who can you serve this week to shift your focus outward?

Lord, help me to stop overanalyzing my circumstances and start taking action. Show me how I can serve others, even in the midst of my own struggles. Teach me to find peace in the purpose You’ve given me. Guide me in practical steps to pursue Your peace and trust that You will use my obedience for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Adapted from: "God's Answer for Worry": https://www.joshfranklin.org/media/2m83fmg/9-god-s-answer-for-worry