April 24 | CHRIST IS OUR PEACE

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matt. 5:9).

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Christ’s atonement made it possible for man to be at peace with God.

After World War II the United Nations was created to promote world peace. But since its inception in 1945 there has not been a single day of global peace. That’s a sad commentary on man’s inability to make peace. In fact, someone once quipped that Washington D.C., has so many peace monuments because they build one after every war!
It hasn’t always been that way. Prior to the fall of man, peace reigned on the earth because all creation was in perfect harmony with its Creator. But sin interrupted peace by alienating man from God and bringing a curse upon the earth. Man couldn’t know true peace because he had no peace in his heart. That’s why Jesus came to die.
I once read a story about a couple at a divorce hearing whose conflict couldn’t be resolved. They had a four-year-old boy who became distressed and teary-eyed over what was happening. While the couple was arguing, the boy reached for his father’s hand and his mother’s hand and pulled until he joined them.
In a sense that’s what Christ did. He provided the righteousness that allows man and God to join hands. Romans 5:1 says that those who are “justified by faith … have peace with God through the Lord Jesus Christ.” Colossians 1:20 says that God reconciled all things to Himself through the blood of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
Yet on the surface, the scene at the cross wasn’t peaceful at all. Pain, sorrow, humiliation, hatred, mockery, darkness, and death were oppressively pervasive. But through it all Christ was doing what He alone could do: making peace between man and God. He paid the supreme price to give us that precious gift.
In the future Jesus will return as Prince of Peace to establish a Kingdom that will usher us into an eternal age of peace. In the meantime He reigns over the hearts of all who love Him. Let His peace reign in your heart today!

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Suggestions for Prayer: Thank God for the peace of heart that comes from knowing Christ.

For Further Study: Read Philippians 4:6–9. What must a person do to know God’s peace?

MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1993). Drawing Near—Daily Readings for a Deeper Faith (p. 127). Crossway Books.

April 22 | RISKING TRUE PEACE

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matt. 5:9).

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True peace exists only where truth reigns.

People often define peace as the absence of conflict, but God sees it differently. The absence of conflict is merely a truce, which might end overt hostilities but doesn’t resolve the underlying issues. A truce simply introduces a cold war, which often drives the conflict underground, where it smolders until erupting in physical or emotional disaster.
James 3:17 says, “The wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable.” Godly wisdom, purity, and peace go hand in hand. Peace is wisdom in action and is never established at the expense of righteousness. Peace brings righteousness to bear on the situation, seeking to eliminate the source of conflict and to create right relationships. Feuding parties will know true peace only when they are willing to admit that their bitterness and hatred are wrong and humbly seek God’s grace to make things right.
Some people equate peacemaking with evading issues, but true peace can be very confrontational. In Matthew 10:34 Jesus says, “Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” That may seem to contradict Matthew 5:9, but it doesn’t. Jesus knew that sinful people have to be confronted with the truth before they can experience peace. That can be a painful and difficult process because people usually have a hostile reaction to the gospel before they finally embrace it. Even believers will sometimes react negatively when confronted with God’s truth.
Being a Biblical peacemaker has its price. You can expect to upset unbelievers who openly oppose God’s Word, as well as believers who compromise its truth for the sake of maintaining “peace” among people of differing doctrinal persuasions. Some will call you narrow-minded and divisive for dealing with controversial issues. Some will misunderstand your motives or even attack you personally. But that’s been the path of every true peacemaker—including our Lord Himself. Take heart, and be faithful. Your efforts to bring peace show that you are a child of God.

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Suggestions for Prayer: Ask God for the boldness never to compromise His truth. ✧ Pray for those you know who are suffering for the sake of the gospel.

For Further Study: Read Luke 12:51–53, noting how the gospel can bring division even among families.

MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1993). Drawing Near—Daily Readings for a Deeper Faith (p. 125). Crossway Books.

MARCH 13 | CHARACTERISTICS OF PEACEMAKERS, PART 1

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.—MATT. 5:9

The apostle tells us that “God has called us to peace” (1 Cor. 7:15), that He “reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Cor. 5:18). The ministry of reconciliation is peacemaking. Those whom God has called to peace He also calls to make peace.
Today and tomorrow we’re going to look at four things that characterize a peacemaker. First, he is one who has made peace with God. Before we came to Christ, God was at war with us. Whatever we may have thought consciously about God, our hearts were against Him. But “while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son” (Rom. 5:10). God reconciled us to Himself through the work of Christ on the cross. Our battle with God ended and our peace with Him began. And because we have been given God’s peace, we are called to share God’s peace with others (Eph. 6:15).
Second, a peacemaker leads others to make peace with God. Christians are a body of sinners cleansed by Jesus Christ and commissioned to carry His gospel to the rest of the world. Once freed from the shackles of sin, a Christian doesn’t look down on his fellow sinners; he or she realizes they are beggars who have been fed and are now called to help feed others. Our purpose is to preach “peace through Jesus Christ” (Acts 10:36). To lead a sinner to saving knowledge of Jesus Christ is the most peacemaking act a believer can perform. That’s your ministry as an ambassador of Christ.

ASK YOURSELF
Have you ever thought about this before—that you are “called” to the ministry of peacemaking? How does that change your responsibilities as you go through the day? How does it affect the obligation you feel when others continue in stirring up discord and disharmony?

MacArthur, J. (2008). Daily readings from the life of Christ (p. 81). Moody Publishers.

MARCH 12 | PEACE: ITS ULTIMATE SOURCE AND MANIFESTATION

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.—MATT. 5:9

The apostle Paul wrote to the Ephesians, “But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace” (2:13–14). He also told the Colossians, “It was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross” (1:19–20).
How did the cross bring peace? At the cross all of man’s hatred and anger was vented against God. On the cross the Son of God was mocked, cursed, spit on, pierced, reviled, and killed. Jesus’ disciples fled in fear, the sky flashed lightning, the earth shook violently, and the veil of the temple was torn in two. Yet through that violence God brought peace. God’s greatest righteousness confronted man’s greatest wickedness, and righteousness won.
The one who does not belong to God through Jesus Christ can neither have peace nor be a peacemaker. God can work peace through us only if He has worked peace in us.
As a Christian, you might be enduring great turmoil and strife. But in your deepest being you have peace that passes all understanding (Phil. 4:8). Many live in favorable circumstances, but without God they will never find peace, while those who cling to God in the worst of circumstances need never lack peace.

ASK YOURSELF
This peace that “passes all understanding”—when have you experienced that before? Recall a time when God’s peace was every bit as real as the circumstance was dire. The next time you find yourself over your head in strife and conflict, call out for His incomprehensible peace, and expect to receive it.

MacArthur, J. (2008). Daily readings from the life of Christ (p. 80). Moody Publishers.

MARCH 11 | THE GREAT ENEMY OF PEACE

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.—MATT. 5:9

The great enemy of peace is sin. Sin separates people from God and causes disharmony and enmity with Him. To talk of peace without establishing the need for repentance from sin is foolish. The corrupt religious leaders of ancient Israel proclaimed, “Peace, peace,” but there was no peace, because they and the rest of the people were not “ashamed because of the abomination they had done” (Jer. 8:11–12).
To be an effective peacemaker, you must recognize that any conflict is the result of sin. If you separate conflicting parties from each other but don’t confront their sin, at best you will create only a temporary truce. You can’t circumvent sin; it is the source of every conflict.
In what appears on the surface to be the antithesis of the seventh beatitude, Jesus says, “Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword” (Matt. 10:34). His meaning is clear: the peace He brings is not peace at any price. The sword Christ uses is His Word—the sword of truth and righteousness. Like the surgeon’s scalpel, it must cut before it heals, because peace cannot exist where sin remains.
To be a peacemaker you must live a holy life and call others to embrace the gospel of holiness.

ASK YOURSELF
How have you seen sin decimate and destroy relationships? How has your own sin contributed to whatever strain exists between you and another person? If you have not yet repented of a sin that has caused distance between you and someone else, choose repentance today. If others need correction, ask for the Lord’s grace and supply in seeking it.

MacArthur, J. (2008). Daily readings from the life of Christ (p. 79). Moody Publishers.

MARCH 10 | JESUS’ DEFINITION OF PEACE

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.—MATT. 5:9

One of the most obvious facts of world history is that peace does not characterize man’s earthly existence. Yet two thousand years ago Jesus instructed God’s people to be peacemakers. He gave us a special mission to help restore the peace lost at the Fall.
The peace of which Christ speaks is unlike anything the world knows or strives for. His peace is not concerned with resolving conflict between governments and nations, with righting the wrongs of human oppression. His peace is the inner, personal peace that only He can give to the soul of man, a peace that only His children can emulate.
What makes Jesus’ kind of peace different? Instead of focusing on the absence of conflict and strife, Jesus’ peace produces righteousness, for only righteousness can bring two antagonistic parties together. It is what brings the unsaved person to God. It is God who reconciles a person to Himself, imputes Christ’s righteousness to him, and makes peace with him or her.
Only righteousness can usher in harmony and true well-being. James confirms the nature of God’s peace when he writes, “But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable” (James 3:17). Peace cannot be divorced from holiness. “Righteousness and peace have kissed each other” is the beautiful expression of Psalm 85:10. Where there is true peace, there is righteousness, holiness, and purity. May those things characterize you as you strive to be a peacemaker.

ASK YOURSELF
What situations in your own life are in desperate need of peace and restoration? How do you think God wants to use you as a peacemaker in the midst of it? You’ve surely tried. You’ve wanted to see righteousness and justice returned. Pray that the Lord would show you how to exhibit His brand of peace in fresh, new ways.

MacArthur, J. (2008). Daily readings from the life of Christ (p. 78). Moody Publishers.

21 FEBRUARY (1858) | How to keep the heart

“The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7
SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: Mark 4:35–41

Cast your troubles where you have cast your sins; you have cast your sins into the depth of the sea, there cast your troubles also. Never keep a trouble half an hour on your own mind before you tell it to God. As soon as the trouble comes, quick, the first thing, tell it to your Father. Remember, that the longer you take telling your trouble to God, the more your peace will be impaired. The longer the frost lasts, the more thick the ponds will be frozen. Your frost will last till you go to the sun; and when you go to God—the sun, then your frost will soon become a thaw, and your troubles will melt away. But do not be long, because the longer you are in waiting, the longer will your trouble be in thawing afterwards. Wait a long while till your trouble gets frozen thick and firm, and it will take many a day of prayer to get your trouble thawed again. Away to the throne as quick as ever you can. Do as the child did, when he ran and told his mother as soon as his little trouble happened to him; run and tell your Father the first moment you are in affliction. Do this in everything, in every little thing—“in everything by prayer and supplication” make known your wants unto God. Take your husband’s headache, take your children’s sicknesses, take all things, little family troubles as well as great commercial trials—take them all to God; pour them all out at once. And so by an obedient practice of this command in everything making known your wants unto God, you shall preserve that peace “which shall keep your heart and mind through Jesus Christ.”

FOR MEDITATION: If the God of peace is with you (Philippians 4:9), you have open access to the peace of God—but check carefully all the conditions in Philippians 4:6.

SERMON NO. 180

Spurgeon, C. H., & Crosby, T. P. (1998). 365 Days with Spurgeon (Volume 1) (p. 59). Day One Publications.

FEBRUARY 3 | The peace of Christ

Remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
Ephesians 2:12–18, NIV

Having made peace through the blood of His cross.
Colossians 1:20, NKJV

Peace, perfect peace, in this dark world of sin?
The blood of Jesus whispers peace within

Peace, perfect peace, by thronging duties pressed?
To do the will of Jesus, this is rest.

Peace, perfect peace, our future all unknown?
Jesus we know, and He is on the throne.
Edward Henry Bickersteth, 1825–1906

Manser, M., ed. (2015). Daily Guidance (p. 44). Martin Manser.

JANUARY 31 | THE BLESSINGS OF INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP

SCRIPTURE READING: EPHESIANS 1:16–19
KEY VERSE: JOHN 16:33

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace.
In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer,
I have overcome the world.

Our time spent with God has a dramatic impact on our daily lives. When we spend time focusing upon and listening to Him, several changes—both subtle and dramatic—begin to occur in our lives:

• We begin to gain a godly perspective. The apostle Paul was certainly mindful of this. In Ephesians 1:16–19, we see that Paul actively prayed for himself and others to receive God’s outlook. When we begin to see through enlightened eyes, the whole world becomes much clearer, as does our understanding of how to deal with these issues.
• Spending time with God causes the pressures of life to dissipate. Jesus warned His disciples that they would (just as all of us will) face trouble in this world, but He assured them that they had no real reason to be afraid. Why fear a foe that Christ has already conquered (John 16:33)?
• Meditation brings peace. In our thoroughly troubled world, we frequently find ourselves in need of peace. Jesus promised us that true peace can be found in Him alone (John 14:27). Not only can the world not offer this genuine peace, but Paul even said that the world cannot understand God’s peace (Philippians 4:7).

The search for personal satisfaction should not be our only reason for spending time with the Lord, but we cannot deny the blessings that accompany an intimate relationship with Him.

Thank You, dear Lord, that I can have an intimate relationship with You, enabling me to hear Your voice and walk in Your ways.

Stanley, C. F. (2006). Pathways to his presence (p. 32). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

January 26 | THE BOND OF PEACE

  “Being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

EPHESIANS 4:3

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 The key to peace in the church is selfless love.

People often delude themselves that there is peace when there is no real peace (Jer. 8:11). However, we can show the world that Jesus is the true peacemaker if we have a community of peaceful, loving, united believers. Others will realize then that Christ must be sent from God, because only God can make true, lasting peace.
“The bond of peace” is what holds our unity together. The Greek word translated “bond” refers to a belt. It pictures the Body of Christ being wrapped with the belt of peace, a peace that is born of love.
Our bond of peace is vital to our testimony. As Christians, we have “peace with God” (Rom. 5:1) and “the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Cor. 5:18), the privilege of telling others how they may have peace with God. If we don’t have peace among ourselves, why would unbelievers look to us to find peace with God?
The Corinthian church teaches us how not to have peace. Members would have a “love feast,” followed by Communion. Apparently, though, those who brought food gorged themselves and became drunk, leaving the poorer believers to go hungry (1 Cor. 11:17–22). Those gluttons not only dishonored the Lord but also hurt their fellow believers, causing resentment and conflict.
During their worship services, everyone wanted attention. Paul laments, “Each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation” (1 Cor. 14:26)—and they all wanted to speak at once. They weren’t interested in building up each other, only in being heard. The result was a loud, confusing mess.
The Corinthians’ disharmony was evident in different ways, but the root cause was the same: selfishness.
So where does peace come from? Selflessness, the primary characteristic of Christian love. Philippians 2:3 says, “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself.” We must humble ourselves and focus on the needs of others. When that happens, there will be harmony and unity.

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Suggestions for Prayer: Confess any selfishness, and ask God to help you grow in selfless love.

For Further Study: What does Romans 8:6 equate peace with? Memorize this verse during the next few days.

MacArthur, J. (1997). Strength for today. Crossway Books.

JANUARY 13 | You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.

Jehovah God, I cast my burden on You, and You shall sustain me; You shall never permit the righteous to be moved. I will trust and not be afraid; for You, Lord, are my strength and my song; You also have become my salvation.
Why am I fearful, O me of little faith? May I be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let my requests be made known to You, God; and Your peace, God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard my heart and mind through Christ Jesus. In quietness and confidence shall be my strength.
The work of righteousness will be peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever. Jesus leaves His peace with me, His peace He gives to me; not as the world gives does He give to me. So I let not my heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Peace comes from Jesus who is and who was and who is to come.

I believe, Lord God. Help my unbelief so that I may experience the peace You long for me to know as I put my trust in You.

ISAIAH 26:3; PSALM 55:22; ISAIAH 12:2; MATTHEW 8:26; PHILIPPIANS 4:6–7; ISAIAH 30:15; ISAIAH 32:17

Jeremiah, D. (2007). Life-Changing Moments With God (p. 22). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

January 2 | Experiencing God’s Peace

“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (Eph. 1:2).

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True peace is God’s gift to those who love and obey Him.

Throughout history mankind has sought peace through military alliances, balances of power, and leagues of nations. Yet lasting peace still remains an elusive dream. Even during times of relative peace, nations struggle with internal strife and crime.

The Bible says that man on his own cannot know peace because he is alienated from its source. But we need not despair. True peace is immediately available from God our Father (“the God of peace,” Rom. 15:33) and from the Lord Jesus Christ (the “Prince of Peace,” Isa. 9:6). It’s a gift of God’s grace to those who love and obey Jesus Christ.

The New Testament so clearly teaches the inextricable link between God’s grace and peace that “Grace to you and peace” became a common greeting in the early church. Grace is God’s great kindness toward those who are undeserving of His favor but who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ. It is the fountain, and peace is the stream. As recipients of His grace, we have “peace with God” (Rom. 5:1); we are reconciled to Him through faith in His Son, and we will never experience His wrath. We also have the “peace of God” (Phil. 4:7, emphasis added)—the Spirit’s way of assuring us that God is in control even in the midst of difficult circumstances. That’s why Paul calls it the peace that “surpasses all comprehension” (Phil. 4:7).

The world’s peace is relative and fleeting because it is grounded in circumstances. God’s peace is absolute and eternal because it is grounded in His grace.

Does God’s peace reign in your heart, or have you allowed sin or difficult circumstances to diminish your devotion to Christ?

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Suggestions for Prayer: Thank God that you have peace with Him through faith in Jesus Christ. ✧ Ask the Spirit to reveal any sin that might be hindering God’s peace from ruling in your heart. Be prepared to respond in confession and repentance. ✧ Ask for opportunities to demonstrate God’s peace to others today.

For Further Study: Read Philippians 4:6–7. ✧ What is God’s antidote for anxiety? ✧ How does God’s peace affect a believer’s heart and mind?¹

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¹  MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1993). Drawing Near—Daily Readings for a Deeper Faith (p. 14). Crossway Books.

December 29 | Facing the Future

Scripture Reading: Romans 5:1–2

Key Verse: Romans 5:5

Hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

A popular bumper sticker reads, “No God, no peace. Know God, know peace.” The message is short and simple, but it’s absolutely true.

Thousands of Christian counselors would attest to this fact every day, as hurting people approach them with problems that stem from a lack of peace on the inside. A great many counselees are believers who have never really embraced the security and love of God’s grace. They lack an understanding of how His plan of reconciliation in the Cross bears on their real lives.

The following are some self-diagnostic questions to help you determine your own “peace factor”:

•          Do I feel restless or apathetic about spiritual things or life in general, even when circumstances are going fine?

•          Do I still feel a cloud of guilt hanging over my head for things I did wrong in the past?

•          Am I easily infuriated by the weaknesses of people around me?

•          Do I secretly resent those who seem happy or content, believing they are just faking it?

•          Do I wish I were someone else?

•          Am I afraid that God is going to punish me when I mess up?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be experiencing a lack of peace. Ask the Lord to show you the root of the problem. He will help you embrace the tender wonder of His love today and give you peace and power to face the future.

O God, free me from restlessness, apathy, guilt, and resentment. Make me more tolerant of weaknesses of others. Give me peace and power to face the future. Help me embrace Your forgiveness, Lord, and rest in it fully.¹

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¹  Stanley, C. F. (1999). On holy ground (p. 380). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

December 20 | The Twofold Peace of God

scripture reading:	Romans 5:1–5
key verse:	John 14:27

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

The peace of God is twofold—positional and experiential.

When you trust Christ for salvation, you enter into peace with God. The Lord justifies you, declares you no longer guilty of your sin, and gives you a righteous standing. This is positional peace. The Judge of all people has rendered a favorable verdict for those who place their faith in Christ’s work on the cross. You can now have access to the presence of God, for you are His child, born again by His Spirit and known intimately by Him.

But there is more. You also receive the peace of God as you face life’s battles and uncertainties. Through His indwelling Holy Spirit, God’s indescribable peace settles your fears, calms your anxieties, and anchors your mind. “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 comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6–7 nasb).

You are not alone anymore. God is with you. “The Lord is near” (Phil. 4:5 nasb); “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you” (Heb. 13:5 nasb).

O God, thank You for Your peace. I am not alone anymore. You are with me. You will never leave me or forsake me.¹

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¹  Stanley, C. F. (1998). Enter His gates: a daily devotional. Thomas Nelson Publishers.

December 19 | The Prince of Peace

scripture reading:	John 1:1–18
key verse:	Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

The heavenly host, who appeared to the shepherds at Christ’s birth, announced peace on earth. Christ’s incarnation was the inaugural step for establishing reconciliation between a holy God and sinful humanity.

Humankind, though loved by God, was an enemy of God due to a rebellious nature. People also engaged in unending conflict with other people. Self continually sought preeminence. But at the coming of Christ, God’s offer of peace through the sacrifice of His Son transformed the hopeless fight: “But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (Eph. 2:13 nasb).

By faith in Christ, you and God can be reconciled; you can become a friend of God: “Although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach” (Col. 1:21–22 nasb).

The Prince of Peace also can revolutionize your dealings with others. True peace can come through Christ’s indwelling reign in your heart: “For He Himself is our peace” (Eph. 2:14 nasb).

Jesus, thank You for bringing peace. Let Your peace rule and reign in my heart, breaking down every barrier of opposition. You are my peace.¹

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¹  Stanley, C. F. (1998). Enter His gates: a daily devotional. Thomas Nelson Publishers.

December 16 | Peace on Earth?

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.

Luke 2:14, nasb

As we hear so often at Christmas, the beginning of [Christ’s] earthly life was heralded by angels who announced peace on earth (Luke 2:14).

There never really has been peace on earth, in the sense we think of it. Wars and rumors of wars have characterized the entire two millennia since that first Christmas, and all the time before it.

That announcement of peace on earth was a two–pronged proclamation. First, it declared the arrival of the only One who ultimately can bring lasting peace on earth (which He will do when He returns to bring about the final establishment of His earthly kingdom).

But more important, it was a proclamation that God’s peace is available to men and women. Read the words of Luke 2:14 carefully: “‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.’”

Who are those with whom He is pleased? The ones who have yielded their lives to the authority of His government.¹

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¹  MacArthur, J. (2001). Truth for today : a daily touch of God’s grace (p. 377). J. Countryman.

November 19 | The Guardianship of Peace

The peace of God… will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:7

Today’s verse speaks of God’s peace guarding our hearts and minds. “Will guard” is a military term meaning, “to keep watch over.” The Philippian believers lived in a garrison town where Roman soldiers were stationed to guard the interests of the empire in that part of the world. In the same way, God’s peace guards us from anxiety, doubt, fear, and distress.

The believer who doesn’t live in the confidence of God’s sovereignty will lack His peace and be left to the chaos of a troubled heart. But our confident trust in the Lord will allow us to thank Him in the midst of trials because we have God’s peace on duty to protect our hearts and minds.

When Paul refers to our hearts and minds, he isn’t making a distinction between the two—it’s a comprehensive statement that describes the whole inner person. Because of our union with Christ, He guards our entire being with His peace. And that’s what helps us be spiritually stable.¹

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¹  MacArthur, J. (2001). Truth for today : a daily touch of God’s grace (p. 348). J. Countryman.

Peace and Thanksgiving | Thoughts about God

Peace and Thanksgiving

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“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”  (Colossians 3:15)

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We live in a world that often produces within us the very opposite of peace.

Our stress and busyness is a normal response to the rush and cares of the day. Yet God calls us to something higher. He calls us to peace.

Is peace ruling your heart today? It can. When you and I first believed that Jesus is the Son of God and opened our hearts to receive His forgiveness and power in our lives we were given the gift of God’s peace. Do you recall receiving that peace? It’s a peace that is unexplainable and peace that remains even as life and the news of the day swirl around us.

Yet it’s easy to loose our grasp on that wonderful gift. It’s offered afresh to us every morning as one of His great mercies toward us.

•    We need His peace to calm our hearts in challenging days.
•    His peace brings health to our minds and our bodies.
•    Living with peace in our hearts honors God.
•    Our peace helps point others who are looking for peace to God.

His peace is free for the taking. God tells us how. Listen again to the wonderful words of life from His word:

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…”

It sounds like it’s a choice. I can let peace rule or I can let peace get buried at the bottom of all those other responses to life. Just how does one go about letting peace rule the heart? God tells us one of the basic steps to walking in peace. He always gives the “how to” when He asks something of us. Catch the often-overlooked words that this verse ends with: “and be thankful”.

Choosing to look at your day and your circumstances and your life with a heart that is filled with gratitude will open the door to peace. Yes, it’s true.

Life is not perfect anywhere on this planet. There are challenges both large and small that come to each one of us. Each challenge has the potential to rob our peace. Yet as we choose to be thankful to God in the midst of those challenges His peace will begin to rule our hearts.

Yes, it can sound trite especially if you are walking in a deep and challenging place today but the principle is sure. It is foundational to a heart that is ruled with peace. “And be thankful.”

If it feels impossible to be thankful where you stand right now ask God to help you to say “thank you” to Him that He alone can give you peace. Thank Him for His love and His care and His power to lead you today through the maze of your life. He will help you as you choose gratitude today and let peace rule your heart.

Prayer of action:

Father God, so often my heart finds it easier to see the things that I am not thankful for. Open my eyes and my heart to having a new attitude of gratefulness to You.

Help me today to enter into each part of my day as doing what is in front of me for You and as one representing You. Help me to be keenly aware of all the places today that I can offer You my thanksgiving as I choose this day to LET Your peace rule my heart. Fill my mind with the things You bring to my life: Your strength, Your power, Your help and Your love. Thank you that You will help me choose well what rules my heart today. I choose Your peace. In the strong name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Questions: What are you thankful for? How can you be more thankful?

by Gail Rodgers
Used by Permission

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Further Reading

•  Peace of Mind and Heart – by Daniel Forster

•  Sample Prayer:  Prayer for Inner Peace

•  Salvation Explained

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The post Peace and Thanksgiving can be found at Thoughts about God.

Abiding Peace | Alistair Begg Daily Devotional

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”

Philippians 4:8

We long to know God’s peace and feel His presence. But the peace of God, which guards our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7), does not come about in a vacuum. It will not happen spontaneously. God’s abiding peace will only be experienced when we train our minds on that which is pleasing to Him. So to know peace, first ask, “What should be my pattern of thinking?”

This verse gives Paul’s answer. He encourages us to build our framework for thinking on the basis of that which is excellent and praiseworthy. To that end, he provides us with a list of six foundational virtues of a Christian thought life.

The first is truth. The belt of truth must be fastened before we can benefit from any other aspects of the armor of God (Ephesians 6:14). So here, truth—found objectively in Christ and experienced subjectively as we proclaim the gospel to ourselves and to others—comes first. Second, Paul directs us toward “whatever is honorable”—or “noble,” as some translations have it. Fastening our minds on that which is majestic or awe-inspiring is the opposite of contemplating that which is immoral and earthly. As believers, we are not to feed our minds on trashy entertainment or similar trivialities, which preoccupy so much of our secular society. Instead, we are to think about that which lifts our souls upward towards God and His great works. Third and fourth, Paul calls us to make decisions based on what is just and pure instead of what is convenient or gratifying. It was this way of thinking that distinguished Joseph from David in otherwise similar situations, for when Joseph was pursued by Potiphar’s wife, he made his decision to run from her on the basis of what was right, not what was easy or instantly pleasing to him (Genesis 39:6-12). David, on the other hand, followed his feelings and committed great injustice in sleeping with Bathsheba and murdering her husband (2 Samuel 11). Being a saved person does not immunize us from ungodliness, which starts in the mind and ends in sinful action. Thinking like a saved person does. Fifth and sixth, we are to think on “whatever is lovely” and “whatever is commendable”—or, as it is translated in the King James Version, what is “of good report.” When we think this way, we will listen to reports that build people up as opposed to reports that tear down, disappoint, and destroy. This is a mindset that promotes brotherly love and accompanies God’s grace as it works in our lives.

Tailor your thinking to the pattern Paul provides and make sure you accompany it with prayer (Philippians 4:6-8), and you will have very little room left for anxiety—that peace-disrupting, joy-destroying state of mind which so often creeps into our lives. Instead, train your mind to think God’s thoughts after Him, and you can experience an increased measure of His peace and presence.

Going Deeper: Psalm 119:97–104

Devotional material is taken from the Truth For Life daily devotionals by Alistair Begg, published by The Good Book Company, thegoodbook.com. Used by Truth For Life with permission. Copyright © 2021, 2022, The Good Book Company.

https://www.truthforlife.org/devotionals/alistair-begg/10/15/2024/

September 29 Devotional: The Storms of Life

Scripture reading: Philippians 4:4–9

Key verse: Philippians 4:7

The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Here are some things you can know about the storms of life:

God knows exactly where you are emotionally and mentally when trouble hits. He understands your frustration and need to ask why a certain event has taken place. He never condemns your feelings. Instead, He provides wisdom for all you face.

He will not leave you comfortless. That was a promise Jesus made to His disciples before His death. Today, it is one of our greatest sources of encouragement. Jesus does not leave us on our own to deal with heartache and trials. He has given us the Holy Spirit to comfort and support us when we are too weak to continue. When feelings of anxiety rise, practice growing still before the Lord. Think on His goodness and how He never fails you.

At times, God does allow the pressures of life to build so that we can learn how to deal with them from a position of faith and not fear. Philippians 4:6–7 (nasb) is a promise you can claim: “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 comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Are you ready to listen for God’s voice? He avails Himself to all who seek His face. Therefore watch, listen, and pray. Then you will discover the mind and hope of God.

Father, I am so glad You know where I am emotionally and mentally when trouble hits. You understand my frustration and my need to question. Thank You for not condemning me for my feelings, and for providing wisdom for all I face.¹

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¹  Stanley, C. F. (2002). Seeking His face (p. 284). Thomas Nelson Publishers.