Peace is meant to be a shield, guarding us against the onslaught of anxiety and fear that stands ready to attack our faith and erode our confidence in God. It is like a down payment, a sign of the blessed life Jesus has promised. Because this peace is not rooted in circumstances, others may find it puzzling. In fact, Christ’s peace is often most evident in the midst of difficulty. Paul tells us to actively seek this peace. We do this not by anxiously trying to control our lives but by surrendering our needs to God in prayer and by remembering to live with rejoicing, thankful for what He has already done. Furthermore, peace comes as a byproduct of righteousness—and righteousness comes from living in accordance with the Spirit.
Isaiah 26:3
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.
Isaiah 48:17-18
Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer, The Holy One of Israel: “ I am the LORD your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you by the way you should go. Oh, that you had heeded My commandments! Then your peace would have been like a river, And your righteousness like the waves of the sea.
Romans 8:5-6 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who liveaccording to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus.
Pray for peace. Try to be a peacemaker. (Matthew 5:9) Praise the One who is able to impart peace to your heart (John 14:1-27; 16:33). Seek peace, which is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:19-26). Thank Christ for making peace through His blood (Colossians 1:15-23). Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts (Colossians 3:12-15).
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