This is an amazing truth. If we listen carefully to what God is saying to us, we would hear words of peace. God, right this very moment, is speaking peace over you. All you have to do is listen.

But how do we listen? Obviously, we don’t “listen” with our natural ears–we listen with our spiritual ears. “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24).

It’s hard sometimes to tune in our spiritual ears so that we can hear God. Our minds are so distracted by the things of this world. The onslaught of thoughts and decisions keep our minds focused on the things of this world, not on God.

I think that’s why God commands us to “be still and know that he is God” (Psalm 46:10). When’s the last time you were just still; so still, that no intrusive thought could make its way into your mind? It’s hard to be still in this hectic, fast-paced world. But, it is so important.

“Well Russell,” you might respond, “I can’t control these thoughts in my mind.” Yes, I know that feeling all too well. The harder you try to push away those thoughts, the stronger they come crashing in.

Romans 8:6 says this: “The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace.” If your mind is focused on the things of this world, then it will lead to fear and anxiety. But, if your mind is controlled by the Spirit, the Holy Spirit of God, then it will lead to life and peace.

Amazingly, when I surrender my mind and my thoughts to God, I am filled with peace. It’s as if I can “hear” God speaking peace over me. With my spirit, I listen carefully to what my Father is saying. His words of peace soothe my anxious soul.

Prayer: Father, you say in Romans 8:6 that a mind controlled by the spirit is life and peace. Lord, I surrender my mind to your Holy Spirit right now. Speak words of life and peace to my spiritual ears. I will listen carefully.