We often talk about wanting a peaceful life, but do we really want it? Busyness is a badge of importance in our culture and most of us want to look important. It sounds powerful to say we are busy. But, if we really want peace, there is a way.
What leads to peace?
As he closed his letter to the Philippians church, Paul gives five commands that will lead to a peaceful life. We can apply these to our lives today. (Philippians 4:6-9)
Always be joyful
We are to find joy in all circumstances.
This must have seemed odd to the Philippians. Paul went to jail when he preached the gospel in the city. He was in jail when he wrote this letter and the church was being persecuted as they read it. (Acts 16:16-40; Philippians 1:3-7; 1:28-30)
We are to see God working in our lives no matter the immediate circumstances.
Be gentle
As Christians, we are confident that we have the truth. Sometimes we use it like a club, with each other and with outsiders.
Jesus was gentle with those he met during his earthly ministry and we need to follow his example.
The Lord is near
In the New Testament this phrase is used to describe the presence of God with the believer and the Second Coming of Christ. In this context in light of how it is used at the end of the passage it probable has the first meaning.
If we follow Paul’s commands, we will experience closeness with God today.
Don’t be anxious
We can worry, or we can pray to God. Worry leaves us in our own bubble. Asking God brings the issue to him.
We are not to keep our problems but, in prayer, give the issue to God. We also thank him, and the issue goes his way.
Focus you minds on good things
In our minds are good thought, fruitful plants. There are also weeds, evil distracting thoughts. We are not to focus on them.
The ones we water will grow.
Do we focus on the envy, lust, and gluttony in our lives or do we seek God each day in prayer and reflection on Scripture to strengthen our better thoughts and desires?
Put what you’ve learned into practice
For some people, if they have learned something then it is a completed issue. God wants us to live out our beliefs. Our commitments should be seen in our lives.
The God of peace will be with you
The end of the process is God with us. Jesus was Immanuel, God with us. He promised to be with us as we fulfilled his Great Commission. We should always live for and desire greater presence of God in our lives. (Matthew 1:22-23; 28:18-20)
We often talk about wanting a peaceful life, but do we really want it? Busyness is a badge of importance in our culture and most of us want to look important. It sounds powerful to say we are busy. But, if we really want peace, there is a way.
Questions for consideration:
What have you done to move closer to a peaceful life?
What are your next steps?
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