Dave’s Monday Blast – September 6, 2021

Over the last two weeks we have been speaking of the Peace of God. We declared that it is what everyone desperately wants, but few actually find. So we asked the question: Why is the peace of God so elusive?

Jesus gave to his followers a type of peace that endures through the most trying situation:

“Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, not fearful” (John 14:27).

I know we love this promise and many INTENTIONAL men likely have it memorized. IF you look carefully you notice that the promise of peace from Him includes a command to not be troubled or afraid. His peace is freely given, but the way we respond often determines whether we experience it.

The Greek word for “peace” in the  New Testament derives from a verb that means “to join,” and that’s exactly what it does. Through Christ, three areas separated by sin are reconciled. We discussed how God’s peace is as a three-legged stool:

1. Peace with God. This eternal condition begins with our salvation experience and thereby we become reconciled to God. Our relationship broken by sin is restored.
2. Peace of God. Once we are reconciled back to Him we can then begin to experience His peace. This is a peace which guards our heart and mind (Philippians 4:7). It is a by-product of having the Spirit of God residing within us since the moment of reconciliation.
3. Peace with one Another. Unless we have peace with God, we can’t have the peace of God. And in order to live in peace with others, we must have His peace ruling within us. This looks like (Colossians 3:12 – 13)

So…now we ask this question: Are you lacking any part of God’s three-fold peace? If you’re a Christian, you already have peace with God, but maintaining the other two requires cooperation with the Spirit of God. Thankfully the following practices are designed to do just that:

1. God’s Word (Psalm 119:165) Reading the Word regularly WILL calm our heart and fill our mind with truth. Are you filtering your perception of situations through the Lord’s promises, purposes, power and provision? Do your thoughts and emotions reveal trust or distrust of God?
2. Obedience (Philippians 4:9) Hard questions: Is there any rebellion in your spirit? Do you doubt God’s goodness and love or become impatient if He doesn’t change your situation as fast as you desire? Are you harboring unforgiveness, anger or resentment against someone who has hurt you? Do you rehearse and relive the offense instead of thinking about what is good, honorable, and true? All these subtle forms of disobedience are obstacles to peace.
3. Prayer (Philippians 4:6 – 7) Instead of being anxious, we should pray about everything. Do you bring your worries and fears to the Lord and leave them with Him, or are you quick to take them back?

The next time your heart becomes troubled, go immediately to God’s Word. As you learn of His goodness, greatness, and love, your trust in Him will increase, and the troubles of your heart will diminish (Isaiah 26:3). You can also go to Him in prayer and cast all your anxiety on Him, knowing that He really does care for you (1 Peter 5:7).