She stood quietly in the corner, her expression blank, choosing not to join the group but only to observe. Despite several attempts to involve her in different activities, nothing seemed to work. Eventually, she found her way to the book nook where I was reading with other children. There, she picked up a book and handed it to me, finally smiling and moving closer so she could listen as I read aloud.
There are times when we all feel different or out of place. Reflecting on these moments, I remember my experience in tenth grade. My family had just moved from Texas to Georgia. In Texas, I attended a small school, but now my sophomore class alone had more students than my entire Texas school, kindergarten through twelfth grade. The teacher introduced me in homeroom, and I received many curious looks, but no one spoke. As the bell rang, a girl sitting behind me introduced herself warmly and offered to help me find my way around. She reassured me that I would soon feel settled.
Everyday Examples of Settling
The word “settle” comes up in many situations. Golfers often say, “Ok, settle, settle,” as their ball rolls toward the pin. It may not help the ball drop in the hole, but it’s always a relief when it does. My grandson, who is also my coach, reminds me to settle down, relax, and swing gently.
Another image of settling is a restless baby: after much tossing and turning, and with some rocking and singing, she finally settles down to sleep. I witnessed this recently with my great granddaughter as I sang “Jesus Loves Me.” She looks at me and smiles.
Finding Peace in Chaos
Just as the little girl grew comfortable in the nursery at church, we too can calm our spirits and minds by focusing on the peace available to us. My tenth-grade self was encouraged by my classmate. Sometimes the golf ball sinks in the hole. My favorite picture of peace is my great granddaughter smiling when I sing “Jesus Loves Eryn!”
Have you ever sensed your heavenly father telling you to “Settle down”?
When I’m anxious or worried about life’s challenges, I often pray, “Lord help me!” I want Him to fix or solve the situation. Yet, I am reminded of this scripture that brings me peace:
Philippians 4:6
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Yes, we can “settle down” even when life is chaotic, hard, or uncertain. We need to remember this formula:
- In ever1y situation – don’t be anxious
- By prayer and petition, with thanksgiving – present request to God.
- He already knows what is going on! Thank him for what he is going to do.
- Result – peace of God (although we don’t understand) will guard (settle) your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
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