Perfect peace ∙∙

Perfect peace ∙∙

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you – Isaiah 26:3

Colossians 3:15-17

 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.

 16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

 17 Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

The Smartphone: A Revolutionary Invention

The smartphone is often hailed as the greatest invention of all time because it seamlessly integrates numerous groundbreaking technologies into one compact device.

In 2007, Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, introduced a revolutionary product that redefined the concept of mobile phones. The smartphone emerged as a handheld personal computer equipped with a mobile operating system and a broadband cellular network connection, enabling voice, text, and internet communication. This innovation set a new standard for technology.

In September 2013, the launch of the iPhone 5S marked a significant milestone in the development of smartphones as it became the first device of its kind offered by a major U.S. carrier. This device transformed daily life by facilitating instant access to information and connectivity in ways we never imagined. From that moment on, the digital landscape changed dramatically, ushering in a new era in which smartphones became indispensable tools for our personal and professional activities.

Life has never been the same since.

A New Identity in Christ

Accepting the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior offers us a profound transformation. He provides a new identity that reshapes our lives. This new identity calls us to abandon old habits and embrace a renewed way of living.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this transformation is the peace we receive. It is not merely peace with God but the peace of God. In other words, the profound and perfect peace that only God possesses is lovingly shared with each child of the King. As we embrace this new identity, the peace of Christ begins to rule our hearts, guiding our actions and decisions.

The Peace of Christ as an Umpire

Colossians 3:15 states, “Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body, you are called to live in peace.”

The Greek word translated as “rule” is brabeuo, which refers to “an umpire or arbitrator.” In sports, umpires make decisions ensuring the game is played fairly and within the established guidelines. They make calls on balls, strikes, fouls, outs, and penalties.

The Apostle Paul teaches that the peace of Christ should serve as an umpire in our hearts. This peace helps us control our natural, soulish emotional responses to conflicts, disagreements, and offenses. The peace of Christ enables us to set aside anger, hurt feelings, and disputes. When we let the peace of Christ guide our choices, we can stay calm and live peacefully with others.

However, when we fail to embrace it, we find ourselves “out of bounds,” and it may be necessary to reflect on and readjust our responses.

Living in Peace: A Daily Challenge

Don’t allow your worst moments to overshadow the best version of yourself. Instead, let the best of who you are in Christ triumph over your deepest fears and urges. While this may not be easy, it is always the right choice. Choose to let the peace of Christ lead your heart with peace and confidence.

REFLECT & PRAY

Rather than letting anxious thoughts and fears control us, we can choose to let the peace of God rule our hearts.

Father, as trying times come, help me to set my heart on You. Encourage me to trust You completely and allow Your perfect peace to rule and reign in my heart, no matter the circumstances

INSIGHT

The Peace of God

The Peace of God is not merely the absence of conflict; it is the presence of Christ in the midst of it. This peace is a gift that the world cannot offer. The Lord Jesus Christ provides a supernatural calm that transcends circumstances.

The Lord Jesus Christ reminds us of His gift to us in John 14:27: “I am leaving you with a gift, peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”

The Hebrew word for “peace,” shalom, conveys a deeper meaning than the English word. It embodies more than just the suppression of conflict. Shalom includes the richness of blessings and promotes a deep, meaningful relationship with God. Embracing shalom means welcoming peace into our lives and nurturing our spiritual connection with God.

Psalms 29:11 assures us: “The LORD will give strength to His people; the LORD will bless His people with peace.”

When we focus on God rather than our circumstances, His peace becomes a reality in our lives. The key to experiencing it is found in Isaiah 26:3: “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you.” The ESV translates Isaiah 26:3 as follows: “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”

The Hebrew word bāṭaḥ, translated as “trust” or “confidence,” means “to trust, to have confidence in, or to feel secure.” It implies “a deep sense of reliance and assurance in someone or something.” It emphasizes the “trust placed in God results in perfect peace.”

The Hebrew word for “fixed” or “stayed” is sāmak. Sāmakmeans “to lean on, to support, to uphold, or to sustain.”It conveys the idea of “relying on something or someone for stability and strength.” Here, it refers to a mind that is “stayed” or “steadfast,” meaning “leaning fully on the Father for support and guidance.”

Peace in the Midst of Adversity

Turmoil, suffering, and misunderstanding will always be part of this world. Yet, Christ offers us peace even in the midst of turmoil.

John 16:33 provides this encouragement: “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

Just as sports fans used to depend on umpires for close calls before the era of instant replay, we should focus on the Father during difficult times. By seeking His guidance, we can allow His peace to guide our next steps.

The Choice is Yours

Like the Fox News slogan, “We report, you decide,” the decision to embrace peace ultimately rests with us. Will we let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts, or will we allow fear and anxiety to take over?

Living in peace is easier said than done. It requires intentional effort and practice. However, as children of the King, we are commanded to pursue peace as a way of life.

Choose peace. Choose Christ.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯

© Dr. H 2025