And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
We are living in times of uncertainty: wars are being waged, political standpoints are being defined and causing divide, people are committing senseless crimes, and wickedness and evil are running rampant. As believers, we are called to be separate for a reason. If we subscribe to what is going on in the world, our minds are not only controlled, but they are reformed. We give in to spirits of fear, anxiety, and lawlessness. God’s will is for us to have His peace amidst all that is going on around us. We remain separate by allowing Him to influence our minds and perspectives, not the world. This means if our rent/mortgage is due and a large and unexpected expense comes up that you could not have prepared for, God wants you to yield to Him and bask in His peace, even if it makes no sense.
I like to reflect on my toddler when I think of this one. As a two-year-old, she is still learning to regulate her emotions and when things get frustrating, big emotions are shown in a very dramatic way. During these times, it is hard to communicate with her because her emotions are overshadowing her ability to listen. Pair this with being tired, overstimulated, and hungry and all listening goes out the window. However, when she is calm and at peace, she is more receptive to my direction. I honestly think that when God gave us children, He partly considered them a gift because they allow us as parents to gain some insight into how He regards us. How much more submissive we are to His will when we are at peace and not allowing our emotions to drown out His sovereign direction! The fruits of the spirit are truly keys to success because possessing and developing each of them allow us to be more like Him and understand His will.
And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
James 3:18
Reflection and Application
What characteristics align with this fruit?
Do you have a “peace that surpasses all understanding” experience? If so, reflect on this/these moment(s) in your life. If not, ask God to reveal this fruit to you.
What can you do to better cultivate this fruit?
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