soul journey 
Life often tempts us to chase after things we don’t have, strive for places we aren’t, or dwell in “what ifs.” Yet, God invites us into a life of peace and trust through His words: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).
Ceasing striving and finding happiness with what you have begins with trusting that God’s plan for your life is perfect, even if it looks different from your expectations. It means shifting your focus from what is lacking to what is abundant, recognizing that God’s blessings surround you each day.
Contentment is not about settling; it’s about resting in the assurance that God provides exactly what you need for this season. “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). When we release the constant urge to achieve, acquire, or compare, we open our hearts to the peace of the present moment, acknowledging that God is enough, and in Him, we are enough.
Learning to embrace this truth requires intentional steps that ground us in His presence and help us find joy in the present moment.
1. Surrender Control to God
Letting go of the need to control outcomes allows you to trust God’s perfect plan. Surrender in prayer, releasing your worries to Him.
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
2. Cultivate Gratitude for Today
Reflecting on God’s blessings in the here and now shifts our focus from what’s missing to what’s abundant. Keeping a gratitude journal can help.
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
3. Practice Contentment
Contentment is a choice to find joy and sufficiency in the present moment. It comes from trusting God’s provision.
“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6)
4. Live One Day at a Time
Jesus reminds us not to worry about tomorrow but to live fully in today’s blessings and challenges.
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6:34)
5. Seek God’s Presence in Stillness
Set aside moments of quiet to reflect, meditate on Scripture, and be with God. This helps us recognize His presence and power in our lives.
“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:14)
6. Trust in God’s Timing
Life unfolds according to God’s plan, not ours. Resting in His timing brings peace.
“He has made everything beautiful in its time.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
7. Shift Focus from Material to Eternal
Instead of striving for possessions or achievements, seek the things of God that bring lasting fulfillment.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)
8. Pray for a Peaceful Heart
Prayer invites God’s peace into our lives. Ask Him to quiet your heart and help you embrace the present moment.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
9. Remember God’s Sovereignty
Trust that God is in control, even when life feels uncertain. This truth allows you to rest and cease striving.
“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)
10. Celebrate God’s Faithfulness
Reflect on how God has been faithful in the past and trust Him to provide in the future. His faithfulness is unchanging.
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)
By learning to rest in God’s promises and trust His plans, you can find peace and joy in the present moment. As you cease striving and embrace His sovereignty, life becomes less about chasing what you don’t have and more about celebrating the abundant grace already present. Through gratitude and trust in God’s timing, we find joy right where we are.
