READ: Hebr. 13:15-21
… and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. – Phil. 4:7-9
If you pour out your heart before the Lord with thanksgiving for His grace, knowing that He will answer your prayers (v.6), then you will experience His peace. This is not peace with people, but the peace that comes from God in Christ and works within you. You receive this peace through Christ’s reconciliation which gives you peace with God; then He pours His peace into your heart and inner being.
Through communion with Christ, God’s peace will take hold of you more and more. When you joyfully see the work of the Lord in your life, everything falls into place in the right perspective and harmony.
What you do not understand, you leave with the Lord in prayer, asking for wisdom (James 1:5). You trust that even in adversity, God works for good. This prevents anxiety from controlling you.
At the same time, your faith is strengthened. There is always a reason for joy, for this peace guards your heart and thoughts in Christ Jesus (v.7). As a result, unrest, distress, despair, hopelessness, or gloom will disappear.
Paul says: This peace of God surpasses all understanding. We cannot fully comprehend or create it ourselves. It is a gift of God’s grace in Christ.
However, God desires to see a life of gratitude and joy, full of trust in Him, in which we delight in Him and live according to His Word in an active, living faith—in every aspect of life.
Paul adds that following his example in everything God’s Word has taught them will bring God’s blessing: the blessing of His constant presence as the God of peace, with the promise of His eternal Kingdom of Peace.
Do you recognize the peace of God that Paul speaks of?
Sing: Ps. 29:3