By Lisa Wilmore
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” (Isaiah 26:3 KJV).
Blessings, Dear Hearts,
Some may believe that peace comes in the stillness of the night or in a quiet room. Others may believe that peace is found while traveling, during a special moment, or even in a particular place that seems to bring comfort. However, the Bible reminds us that perfect peace comes from God. We can never completely avoid trouble, conflict, worry, or difficult circumstances. These things will come into our lives, but even in the midst of them, God can give us perfect peace.
What has disturbed your peace lately? What has caused unrest in your life that you feel you cannot get past? We all experience times when turmoil seems to wreak havoc in our lives. In fact, there are moments when our circumstances become overwhelming, our thoughts become restless, and our hearts become troubled. Yet, Scripture reminds us that when we keep our minds stayed on God, He will keep us in perfect peace.
Isaiah 26:3 is described as a song of trust, praise, and meditation. It gives us an amazing promise from God. David Guzik, articulated that the Hebrew expression for “perfect peace” is actually shalom, shalom. The word is repeated to emphasize the completeness and fullness of the peace God provides. It is not simply a temporary feeling of calm. It is a peace that comes from knowing that God is present, God is faithful, and God is in control (Enduring Word). He also explains that some may experience peace, but that peace can be momentary. Others may have a kind of peace, but it is not the perfect peace that comes from God. There is, however, a perfect peace that the Lord will keep us in when our minds are stayed on Him.
Interestingly, God’s peace is different from the peace the world offers. The world may suggest that peace comes from positive thinking or from the absence of conflict. God’s peace does not depend upon everything going well. Futhermore, Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Jesus also said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth.”
No matter the turmoil, struggle, trial, tribulation, or sickness, we can keep our minds stayed on Jesus. When life becomes difficult and our hearts are troubled, we can remember that our peace is not dependent upon our circumstances. Our peace is found in Christ. He will keep us steady when life feels uncertain while strengthening us when we feel weak. So, Dear Hearts, keep your head up and your mind stayed on Jesus. Trust Him, rest in Him, and allow Him to keep you in perfect peace, even in the midst of turmoil.
