Active Peace

"Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4. 6,7


guard - to keep safe from harm or danger; to protect
to keep under close watch in order to prevent misconduct
to keep under control or restraint as a matter of prudence or caution
to obstruct or impede the movement or progress of an opponent

We know that worry is not of the Lord. It is contrary to true faith and confidence in who He is. It belittles His care, mocks His strength, and insults His faithfulness. On top of that, it robs the believer of peace, the peace of God.

As I read this verse today, I marveled at the realization that diligent prayer results in peace that is not merely wondrously pleasant for the moment, but is actually proactive. This peace that comes from God alone guards my heart, providing protection from the enemy and from misconduct on my part.

The peace of God that passes understanding is not like the image we so often have of peace - a picture of passivity, of a quiet scene free from action. Instead it is a peace that, while providing freedom from inappropriate commotion such as stress and frenzy, is still very proactive; it is shielding me from taunts, poor confessions, and who knows what else.

So once again, where do I find this peace? How does one come by this wonderful commodity?

Stop worrying and begin praying with thanksgiving.

As Corrie ten Boom was known to say, "KISS - keep it simple, stupid."