“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7
God promises us in Philippians 4:7 that he will impart to us a peace that will help guard our hearts and minds through Jesus Christ in this ruthless world.
Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall inherit the Earth (Matt. 5:9).” Isn’t it good to know that those who desire peace and harmony are the ones who will inherit the Earth?
All of us can agree the world we live in is not peaceful. There is political unrest, terrorism, crime, and corruption everywhere. We live in a sinful world. A world that desperately needs to hear the good news that God saves sinners.
Isaiah 9:6 shares a prophecy that was fulfilled over 2,000 years ago when Immanuel, “God with us” stepped into this world by taking on human flesh!
“For to us a child is born, to us, a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
This child was Jesus. He died for the sins of mankind. He rose again and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He is our High Priest and Savior. He is indeed a wonderful counselor, Mighty God, and Prince of peace.
If all of this is true, then why is the world in so much turmoil? Why is peace still a far-reaching goal in this present age? If Jesus is King and He has all authority and power then why are nations still at war?
Jesus tells his disciples that before the end of the world happens, there are specific events that must take place. Here is a descriptive passage in Matthew 24 that clearly informs readers what the world will be like shortly before Christ returns.
Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you. 5 For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. 6 You will hear of wars and rumors of wars but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. 7 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of birth pains.
9 “Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. 10 At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, 11 and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. 12 Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, 13 but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. (Matt: 24:14-24).”
Honestly, I don’t know why God chose this type of predicament to happen before the end of the world. From this perspective, it seems that things will get worse before it gets better. But the good news is that Jesus said He will never leave us or forsake us. He will stand by our side in the midst of our trials and tribulations.
It can be difficult to understand the mind of God. Sometimes I wish he would just stop all the war now and set up his kingdom. But in His infinite wisdom, He has a better understanding than I do. There may be good reasons why He is waiting. 2 Peter 3:9 states, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, but is patient, not willing that any perish but all come to repentance.”
Therefore, we must be patient and hope for the peace that is to come. And while we wait, each of us can cultivate the spirit of peace. God gave us the fruit of the spirit, and one of these important attributes include peace.
You can bring peace on earth by loving your neighbor. You can allow peace to reign in your heart, mind, and soul. Peace can be shared in your relationships at work, school, or in your own home. Continue to cultivate peace daily. Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, you sent your Son Jesus to die for our sins. He is the prince of peace. Holy Spirit, you dwell in our hearts. Help us to cultivate the fruit of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control. We pray for your kingdom to come and your will be done on Earth as it is in heaven. May peace reign soon. Amen.
Conform to Jesus 
Grace, is to be fulfilled as patience is endured. As each day passes our light shines in the darkness of this world drawing just one more to the throne, that as our Lord desires none shall perish in sin. Blessed are those who reflect their light as a guiding star. It was a star which lead the wiseman to our saviour, as do we as his stars in obedience. Blessed, “Oh Lord.” For your patience with Grace.
Amen and Amen in Yeshua’s name we share.
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