Monday, July 16, 2012

PEACE


So often in our journeys, what we desire is not bigger hills or deeper streams to forge. But neither is it easy paths or winding meadows. What we want is the peace that we're going the right way. We want the peace that things will be okay. We want the peace of a happy ending.

          ...But this isn't what's been promised to us.

No, Christ promised us peace but a peace that passes all understanding. If we always understand the road or the companions on the raod with us...well then why would we need Christ and His peace.

In the Christian faith there have become cliche verses: John 3:11, Philippians 4:1, ect ect. And while they're great and such an encouragement at times, what about the context of those verses.

Often, I've been referr to the verse "Do not be anxious.." (Philippians 4:6) but read what comes before that:


Philippians 4: 4-9                                                                     

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it  again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.           
8 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.                        



Gives a little different perspective on peace, doesn't it?

Rejoice

Pray

Praise

Give Thanks

THINK ABOUT SUCH THINGS


Do I do all these? Do I really pursue peace or do I just want it? Am I willing to do the parts about "by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." but not the rejoicing that comes with it.

I think the biggest leasson I am learning about peace, joy, love, or hope, is that it's a mental thing. When we think right - when we place our thoughts on things of Christ and not get tied up with thoughts of below.


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