The one aspect of my life in Christ that I cherish the most is peace. When the Lord "fashioned me in my mother's womb" (Psalm 139:13), He did so with the intent of this provision for peace. But I had a part to play in achieving it. I like the way the International Standard version puts it in James 3:18 "And a harvest of righteousness is grown from the seed of peace planted by peacemakers."
Peace is good for our soul and our physical well-being. Staying peaceful reduces stress and keeps us anxiety-free. I don't know about you but I safeguard my peace by careful discernment of events, people or things that attempt to alter it. But how do we get to living a life of peace? ... by learning to maintain peace in three important relationships: with God, with our fellow man, and with ourselves. We maintain peace with God by believing and trusting Him. We maintain peace with our fellow man by not allowing strife to be a part of our relationships with other people. We maintain peace with ourselves by refusing to live in guilt or condemnation thus recognizing that God is greater than all of our sins.
This kind of peace doesn't come through drugs, alcohol, sex, wealth, or entertainment. It is a supernatural (not worldly) peace that is a gift of God (John 14:27). The spiritual fruit of peace results from being justified by faith (Romans 5:1). and loving God's law. (Psalm 119:165) This is a peace that surpasses all human understanding, and it keeps your heart and mind through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7)
The next time you feel your peace is fleeting remember that first it is a gift from God then place righteous living (biblically sound choices) on your daily to-do list. Sow peace in the lives of others too. There are many varieties of mustard but only one peace that comes from God -- that which "surpasses all understanding"
GBY! Barbara
- This biog is an extension of HOPE Ministry and "The Secret Place" -- if it has sown a blessing in your life please consider sowing back to the ministry at the website link below.
www.hope2007.org
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