June 5th
“And let the peace from Christ rule (act as an umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling w/finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were called [to live].” Colossians 3:15 Amplified Bible
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16 NIV
One of the ways God leads us by the Holy Spirit is through the “peace of Christ.” It is a supernatural peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). We receive it when we place faith in Jesus and it is something we’ll likely grow more sensitive to as we walk with the Lord. Paul said that this peace should rule our hearts at all times. It is to act as a type of spiritual umpire, helping us make godly decisions.
When we make bad decisions that lead us into sin, we will “lose our peace” and will likely feel a conviction from the Holy Spirit concerning our sin. Our sin may open the door to confusion, strife, lust or anger, all of which steal or destroy our peace. Ultimately sin can replace the peace of Christ as the ruler of our hearts if we let it (Romans 6:16).
The confession of our sin and return to God will restore the peace of Christ in our hearts. Keeping the peace will require us to heed the promptings of the Holy Spirit and respond differently than in the past to the pangs of temptation that knock at our door each day. Philippians 4:6-7 shows us how to resist the temptations, direct our petitions to God and trust in his provision:
“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 understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Temptations to sin often involve anxiousness that appeals to our desires. If we can resist that anxiousness and direct our requests to God, his peace will provide supernatural protection over our hearts and minds.
Questions for further thought:
How did Jesus tell the disciples to use the peace in their ministry journeys? (Luke 10:5-7)
What can cause our hearts to be calloused to the peace of Christ? (Hebrews 3:13; 1 Timothy 4:2)
What have you been tempted to be anxious about recently?
Prayer:
“Heavenly Father, thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to live in me. Thank you for sending your peace to my heart. I repent of any sin I have allowed in my life that has hindered the peace of Christ. Please cleanse me of that sin through the blood of Jesus. I lay the things that I’ve been anxious about down at the foot of your throne right now: _______________ (list). I trust you with these things and believe that you will work them out in your perfect will and timing. Please restore a sensitive conscience in me and refill my heart with your peace. Thank you, Father! I worship and praise you now and forever, Amen.”
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