Living Out Psalm 34:14

Seek peace, and pursue it. – Psalm 34:14b

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Recent days of distancing myself from the rest of the world has meant extra closeness with my family members – perhaps too much closeness for comfort, at times.

As a home-schooling family, we are often at home together and do most everything as a unit. In light of that, we feel fortunate that our daily lives have not changed all that much. But I’ve been surprised to find that I miss the occasional “alone time” I had while running errands. (My husband has been doing them on his way home from work.)

Just me, myself, and I, choosing the radio station in the car, checking out the organic produce at the grocery store, or lingering over craft items at Hobby Lobby.

That lack of solitude has left this introvert feeling a bit irritable.

As well, the just-out-of-reach end to our home-school year makes me want to toss my teacher hat out the open window. Sunny spring days beckon me outdoors, where home and gardening projects I’ve wanted to do for months are waiting.

The thing is, I fight this restlessness every year (as my husband gently reminds me). Thinking of all I’d like to accomplish in the four short months we take off from school, I become worried about the entire situation before summer even arrives!

That’s not exactly the way to achieve the life of peace that Christ has called us to pursue.

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As I read my Bible this morning, I noticed that Psalm 34:14b is a command, not an option: “seek peace, and pursue it.” And that command to pursue peace exists in the New Testament as well.

If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. – Romans 12:18

Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. – Romans 14:19

I appreciate that the Apostle Paul recognized that peace is a thing to be chased after and attained. Peace is a hard-won prize.

For me, pursuing peace means that I must set aside those things that can wait (even if they are things I enjoy doing), and do those things most important for each day – those things that God has called me to do.

First, ensure the health of my body, soul, and spirit, so that I can…

Teach my children.

Love my husband.

Make my home a pleasant place to be, in this time, of all times.

When I accomplish these priorities each day, I am truly at peace.

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What do you do (or give up) to achieve a life of peace? I welcome your comments.