I want more peace in my life. I think we all do. There are plenty of deterrents in our lives, though, that would keep true peace just out of our grasp. But they are just that-deterrents. Not insurmountable circumstances, but challenges to be faced head-on. In fact, the very definition of deterrent suggests "a way around":
deterrent: something that makes movement or progress difficult
Not impossible, but difficult.
There is a passage in Philippians 4:7-9 that gives us a prescription for peace. Within three verses we read two phrases that sing to my soul: the peace of God and the God of peace. These verses are within the context of our thought patterns and what we choose to do mentally with our concerns. Paul tells us to think about eight things regularly, as we go from day to day, some days good and some days that bring challenges. He says to think about things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, worthy of praise.
Hmm, a lot of things I think about don't really fall under any of those categories. How about you?
Then Paul goes on to say that we have to practice these things. Practice. That sounds intentional. Deliberate.
So if I had to sum up Philippians 4:7-9, I think Paul was telling us this:
The peace of God will guard your mind as you deliberately think about positive, God-honoring things. And as you practice this kind of thinking, the God of peace Himself will live in you and through you.
I want that kind of peace!
