Christ's peace

Peace. It is a word with a variety of meanings.

A state of tranquillity or quiet: as freedom from civil disturbance or a state of security or order within a community provided for by law or custom.

Freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions.

Harmony in personal relations.

A state or period of mutual concord between governments.

A pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity.

Used interjectionally to ask for silence or calm or as a greeting or farewell.

Now, while not all of these definitions fit what Paul says in Philippians 4:6-7, I do believe that the peace of God connects with each of them. Here is what Paul writes…

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

You might think, hey, that sounds great, but I really don’t think it’s that easy.

I would agree with you. Finding the kind of peace Paul describes is not found by just saying a few words. It requires work. It requires us to develop a relationship.

The kind of peace Paul is talking about provides freedom and harmony. It is something that is grown, not magically produced. It continues to develop in our lives as we strive to build a relationship with God and allow ourselves to be transformed.

It is in the next two verses that Paul tells us the kind of work needed to find this peace…

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8-9)

In our world of fast food and lighting speed Internet, I think we have become convinced that we can have anything we want as quick as possible. While that may be true with a burger or a song from iTunes, that’s not true when it comes to relationships and peace. They take work…and time. They require us to invest time and energy in God and other people. Peace is certainly achievable, but not without dedication and focus. There is a peace that surpasses understanding, but it can only be found when we pursue it, and the One who offers it.

 

shine!
Jason