The Peace of God

Tom Barnard

 

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,

will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

(Philippians 4:7)

 

Quick! Can you quote from memory the verse that precedes this verse in Paul’s letter to the Christians at Philippi? What did the apostle say would lead to this promise becoming fulfilled in their lives? Let me give you a hint. The first line begins with these words,

 

“Do not be anxious about anything….”

 

Do you have it now? No? Okay … let me give you another hint. The next line reads,

 

“… but in everything, by prayer and petition ….”

 

Got it yet? Do you need more help? Alright, here is the whole thing. The last line reads,

 

“… with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

 

And what will happen when you follow Paul’s admonition?

 

“The peace of God … will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

 

So, do you want to experience the peace of God surrounding and protecting you in everything you say and do? Do you want to have the confidence that God himself is orchestrating your future? Do you want the assurance that you are safe in the hands of a loving Father? If you do, follow Paul’s advice:

 

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition,

with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

 

If Paul was right, God not only has provided a way for us to experience his protective care, but he wants to give that protection to us.  It’s a done deal. He is waiting for us to ask. And don’t forget that “with thanksgiving” part. We’ve got His word on this.

 

Heavenly Father, it seems clear to me that your plan for me includes divine protection. I don’t have to purchase it. It is there, for the asking. But I must take a step forward in order for you to start the process. I need to lay aside my fears, my anxieties, my lack of faith, and just ask. In fact, you want me to ask thankfully, expectantly, trustingly. And I do that now, Father. I want my worrying days to be over. Today I am handing them over to you. They have never improved my life one bit. So, Lord, here they are. I thankfully release them to you. In their place, I accept your guardian angels to watch over me and the people I love. We are yours, Lord. Amen.

 

PROMISE FOR THE WEEK AHEAD

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end.”

(Isaiah 9:6, 7 NIV)