Choose Peace: It is well with my soul

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows, like sea billows, roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
‘It is well, it is well, with my soul’

I am always moved when singing this song, because it reminds me in an in-your-face way, that I can be at peace, God’s type of peace, in both good and bad circumstances. The kind of peace that ‘surpasses all understanding’ (Philippians 4:7) and that is given by Jesus and unlike what the world gives (John 14:27).

And even better, the repeated phrase ‘It is well, it is well with my soul’, also in the refrain, isn’t meant to be uttered out of hopeless desperation or blindless determination. But it is sung, not only in peace and gentleness, but also in faith, knowing and trusting that God is in control, God is with us.

Maybe it doesn't always feel that way and God knows how impossible it is when we find ourselves stuck in a rut.

But I believe in first making the choice to trust God, and then let Him do the rest. I have learnt that I myself have to choose to let go and let God take over. ('Let go and Let God' Isn't that someone's pet phrase? Hmm.)

Perhaps we should intentionally challenge ourselves to choose peace, and see how that works out to our circumstances, our relationships (with God and with others), our hearts.