Saying my Peace
My heart is troubled today and needing some peace…some shalom. My “in basket” of prayer requests is full and overflowing, add that to my own and it seems that I may break under the weight. I was looking at my manuscript for RETOOLED and found some encouragement that I would like to share. I’m saying my “peace” out loud…proclaiming that our God is faithful in providing the shalom we need…bless you all! - Jay
“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have shalom. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
“And the peace of God which passes all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:7
I hate tribulations don’t you? There’s not much calm built into difficult circumstances, turmoil yes, calm, no. Thankfully, peace is powerful, an overcoming force. There is nothing passive about this “shalom that passes all understanding”. It changes me during trials and enables a sharper picture of my circumstance to form. Shalom helps me to walk through those trials with a sense of purpose; it makes the way a bit clearer to follow. In this sense, peace gives us the ability to walk boldly, confident in His care, even when we don’t understand. The key is what our minds are fixated on during those tough seasons.
“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3
The Hebrew word for keep is nâtsar (naw-tsar') which means to guard or protect. When our thoughts are directed towards the Father, when we trust in Him, an awesome thing happens. God protects our shalom! And it’s perfect because it involves a closer relationship with Him! That’s why it’s more than just concentration and not ever changing our thoughts, it’s relating! This relationship recognizes the need of Father God being the center of every thought, and pursuit of life. At this center is peace, perfect peace.
“The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up His face upon you and give you SHALOM.
Numbers 6:24-26
Do you feel the reflection of Father God on you today? How can I pray for you and your Shalom?
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