If we desire a life of joy and peace, in the same way that we take responsibility for our physical health, we should take responsibility for the inner state of our soul.
How do we do this?
To attain physical health we build a structured daily program of exercise and healthy eating. Likewise, to build an inner state of peace and harmony we need to have a daily program of prayer and meditation.
The mornings are the best time to begin with quiet prayer. Select a place where you can have quiet without any distractions. Thank God for giving you the blessings of life, family, friends and everything you feel grateful for.
Those moments of prayer should be your sacred time where you build up the inner sanctuary of your soul by filling it with peace, gratitude, joy and harmony. You may want to read the Bible and other sacred writings for inspiration during your sacred time. After the prayers and reading, stay still for a few moments and let that peace soak every part of your being until you feel renewed and ready for the day.
Throughout the day, remember your prayers and whatever situation arises, respond to it as if you were still in that same state of peace. Maintain that peace throughout the day and be aware of that inner sanctuary within you. Honor that inner sanctuary by nurturing positive uplifting thoughts, speaking constructive words and doing no harm.
This will become easier with practice.
In the evening, again make time for quiet prayer and meditation. Review your day in your mind and learn what you can from it. Ask yourself: have I been kind, forgiving and compassionate today? Have I spoken helpful words, done helpful deeds? If I have not, why and what can I learn from my mistakes? If you perceive you or others failed, forgive yourself and others immediately from your heart and bear no grudges, instead think of ways you can mend the situation in the future.
If you need additional guidance on how to respond to certain situations, seek answers from the Bible or other sacred writings and even self-help books and videos. Pray to God for guidance in all things. Always seek to grow as a person and learn. Life is a learning process and when we take time to introspect, the faster we learn and the faster we will find the joy and peace we so fervently seek.
As you progress in building spiritual peace within yourself, you will be surprised to notice that more and more people will respond with kindness toward you and even your enemies will not be as harsh.
This inner sanctuary is the one you will enter when you leave this earth, so building up your inner Garden of Eden with all the good you can, should be your top priority in this earthly life. Your inner house of prayer will be your eternal home.
Make it the most beautiful and clean home you can!
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In the way of righteousness there is life;
along that path is immorality.
(Proverbs 12:28)
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When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord,
He makes even his enemies live at peace with him.
(Proverbs 16:7)
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Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,
but he who hates correction is stupid.
(Proverbs 12:1)
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Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path;
he who hates correction will die.
(Proverbs 15:10)
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Do not those who plot evil go astray?
But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness.
(Proverbs 14:22)
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He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame,
but whoever heeds correction is honored.
(Proverbs 13:18)
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