I don't know about you, but I'm not a big fan of peas. Unfortunately, they are a staple here in Wales, as they are all over Great Britain. Yes, the main food groups in Wales are meat, potatoes, and peas. I'm fine with the first two, but I could do without the latter, especially when served in their "mushy" form. Yuck!

Why is it that peace often seems like a distant dream or fateful mishap, like a plateful of peas, when we were hoping for something more appetizing? Let's take a quick look at some of the reasons why peace can feel so elusive.

• Peas of Perplexity:

Sometimes, life presents us with a plateful of perplexing situations. We find ourselves staring at the peas of uncertainty, scratching our heads and wondering how we arrived at this place and what to do next. Yet, amid life's challenges, God invites us to trust Him and find peace even when the circumstances seem unappetizing. Remember, God's ways are higher than ours, and His plan may include a few "peas" along the way.

• Seeking Peace in the Wrong Places:

Let's be honest. We have a bad habit of searching for peace in the wrong places. We look to worldly achievements, material possessions, or the approval of others, expecting them to provide lasting peace. However, true peace can never be found in these external sources. Only when we turn our gaze upward and seek God's presence can we discover the peace that surpasses all understanding.

• An Appetite for Control:

Another reason peace often eludes us is our insatiable appetite for control. We want things done our way and in our timing, seeking to orchestrate every detail of our lives and ensure a smooth and peaceful journey. But life has a way of serving up surprises, like an extra helping of peas. Instead of resisting or crying out in frustration, we can learn to surrender control to God. He alone holds the recipe for true peace, and when we let go of our need for control, we open ourselves to the peace that can only be found in Him.

As we navigate life's twists and turns, anchoring our trust in God's promises is crucial. The Bible assures us that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1). He promises to guide us, provide for us, and work all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). When we embrace His promises and surrender our worries to Him, we can experience a deep sense of peace, even during times of chaos.

Dear friends, let's remember that true peace is not found in avoiding peas or trying to control every aspect of our lives. It's about trusting in the Prince of Peace and surrendering our worries and fears to Him. In each of life's challenges and unexpected "peas," let's seek God's presence, anchor ourselves in His promises, and cultivate a peace-filled life. And when faced with a plate of peas, may we find humor in it and be reminded of the greater peace that awaits us in Christ.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. - John 14:27