I’ve struggled with fear and anxiety since I was young. In fact, the word “peace” is what drew me to the Lord and taught me to trust Him most intimately.

The events of 2020 have been anything *but* peaceful, and I’ve caught myself in the cycle of anxious thoughts more times than I would like to admit.

In the middle of this season, I stumbled upon this verse in Proverbs that spoke volumes to me: “Those who plan peace have joy” (12:20b).

So what does it mean to be a peace planner?

Here’s the thing: peace is NOT the absence of conflict. In fact, the friction and challenges brought upon by conflict can actually produce lasting hope and positive change.

Rather, planning for peace means intentional introspection, scheduled times of rest and mental processing with God before speaking and acting. It means prioritizing unity with the Father far before acceptance by the world.

Being a peace planner can be difficult (for intentionality is difficult in itself), but Solomon points out that it brings JOY.

I don’t know about you, but I could always use a little more joy in my life. This passage reminds us that peace with God doesn’t always lead to the temporary happiness that the world longs for. Rather, peace is an willful and calm submission to the Father, knowing that the deepest source of fulfillment can only be found in Him.

Make the decision today to cease the never-ending chaos and frustration this world begs us to indulge in. Instead, be a peace planner.