While conducting a class for DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) offenders recently, I asked the question, “If you had one wish, what would it be?” Some of the answers were:

“I’d like to win the lottery,” “I hope to be successful in life,” and “I would like to get closer to God.” You name it, and over the 20 years of teaching these classes, I’ve heard it all.

The one answer I hear most often is, “I wish there would be peace on earth.” I always say that’s impossible because the Bible says there will always be wars and rumors of war until the end of time. I then continue talking about a popular Christian song, “Let There be Peace on Earth and Let it Begin with Me.”

I think most people have a desire to be at peace with themselves and others. I, for one, occasionally have periods of what God promises, which is a peace that surpasses all understanding. (Philippians 4:7)

Most of the time, however, I forget that the promise of peace comes with a condition that we be anxious for nothing (stop worrying), but in everything by prayer and supplication (pray about everything), with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God.

If we obeyed the condition preceding the promise, the equation would look like this: Absence of worry + Prevalence of prayer + Spirit of gratitude = Peace of God.

This week, I had a miserable two days. One of the days began with

me waking up at 2:30 a.m. and not being able to go back to sleep. I got up, drank coffee, read the Bible,

and made an attempt to pray, but was tormented all day. Why? Because I allowed worry and

anxiety to control my life. I was worrying about things I couldn’t control.

After a couple of days, I surrendered and went back to the basics. I quit worrying and began praying and was grateful for all the blessings God has bestowed on me and my family.

Be assured that the Peace of God is available, with conditions. That’s a promise.

If you have any questions or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call (985) 652-8477, or e-mail: hkeller@comcast.net.