LIVING WORD DEVOTIONAL
By Pastor Mensa Otabil
Saturday 12th November 2022
GOD’S PEACE RULES OUR HEARTS
Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:1-9
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” *Colossians 3:15
God wants His peace to rule in our hearts. As Christians, we must be willing to allow His peace to take center stage in our lives. When we make room for God’s peace in our lives, He fills us with joy and gratitude.
The passage teaches us that:
▪ God’s peace rules our hearts. God’s peace is like the referee in a football match who stops offenses and ensures order. In life, we get offended. Somebody may do something that disturbs our peace. If we do not guard our hearts, these offenses can lead to bitterness. God’s peace keeps us from living with offenses so we can be free in our hearts to enjoy all that He has given us. When we embrace God’s peace, we become insulated from the panic and anxiety that troubles our world.
▪ God’s peace settles our hearts. God peace is like an arbiter who settles disputes. When we are conflicted and do not know what to do, God’s peace helps us find His will and His way. It gives us a deep assurance of God’s presence so as to confidently face the future. The peace of God in our hearts guides us in our choices and helps us to make decisions that reflect God’s will.
▪ God’s peace produces a life of gratitude. The passage teaches us that when we allow God’s peace to order our lives, we become thankful. The combination of thankfulness and peace is a logical one. Generally, a lack of peace results from self-seeking or a dissatisfaction with things as they are. Thankfulness points us to the realization that all things have been provided for us in Christ. There is no room for ill will or bitterness if thankfulness prevails.
Choose to be thankful for your many blessings.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, when there’s chaos all around, let your peace continually rule my heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
