The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:7
People have different understandings of peace. Some see it as a kind of quiet and calm feeling, while others may think of the hippie movement in the 1960s and 1970s who saw peace as the end of conflict between nations. Still other people may think of something completely different, such as relaxing outside in nature. The idea of peace in and of itself may be a difficult one to fully grasp. This is especially true when thinking about peace that comes from God.
In Paul’s letter to the Philippian church, he touches briefly on this idea the “peace of God.” In the Bible, the word for peace is shalom. Typically, shalom can be translated to mean uninjured and safe, whole, and sound – physically, psychologically, socially, and spiritually. Where there is shalom, there is no need for fear, anxiety, or doubt. Ever.
This is the peace of God that Paul is referring to in Philippians 4. Is it any wonder, then, why he says that it surpasses understanding? Can you imagine a true peace like that? This is the peace that God gives to His children. It does not need to be understood or figured out, it simply needs to be received. It is then that it can begin to work, guarding your heart and mind, as soldiers guard something precious.
Shalom is still possible, even amidst the chaos of the world today. Ask God to give you His peace, to guard you against whatever is trying to worry or weigh you down today. Pray for His peace to cover the United States, protecting its leaders, citizens, and visitors.
Today’s Verse: Philippians 4:7
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Psalm 4
Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!
You have given me relief when I was in distress.
Be gracious to me and hear my prayer!
2 O men, how long shall my honor be turned into shame?
How long will you love vain words and seek after lies? Selah
3 But know that the Lord has set apart the godly for himself;
the Lord hears when I call to him.
4 Be angry, and do not sin;
ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent. Selah
5 Offer right sacrifices,
and put your trust in the Lord.
6 There are many who say, “Who will show us some good?
Lift up the light of your face upon us, O Lord!”
7 You have put more joy in my heart
than they have when their grain and wine abound.
8 In peace I will both lie down and sleep;
for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
