Day 247 – Peace that passes all understanding
Scripture focus: But the fruit of the Spirit is…peace…Galatians 5:22
Peace – eirene – the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew word Shalom, meaning – wholeness, completeness, tranquility in the soul that is unaffected by outward circumstances or pressures, the rule of order in place of chaos, a calm, inner stability that results in the ability to conduct self peacefully, even in the midst of circumstances that would normally be very nerve-racking, traumatic or upsetting, prosperity in one’s soul, orderly, stable and poised for blessing (July 24th, Sparkling Gems from the Greek).
At our house, we’re in the habit of giving our children gifts of music that often show up in the form of instruments. Sometimes the gift turns out to be something our kids really appreciate. And when that happens, after months and months and sometimes years of practice – beautiful music fills our home. Not all the gifts have manifested themselves in the form of fruit. We have a couple of instruments, sitting in the attic, gathering dust.
But the fruit of the Spirit is…peace…
Who wouldn’t want the gift of peace? Think of it – the ability to experience wholeness, completeness, tranquility in the soul – in the midst of suffering, bad circumstances and all sorts of pressure. Sounds great!
God provides through the Spirit the gift of peace. But we have to really appreciate this treasure, and nurture it in our hearts. The potential to live reasonably peaceful in this life is present for those who believe. But unless we practice the principle of peace in all our affairs, the expression of the gift in our lives will lie dormant in our souls. It will sit and gather dust. It will not bear fruit.
Cultivating peace is like learning how to play a musical instrument. It takes practice. It requires developing an inner stability. It calls out to the cultivator – are you poised for blessing? Trying to get our own way all the time creates chaos; learning to live God’s way provides a pathway to peace. May your feet follow your best intentions toward the voice of God. May you be poised for blessings as you travel.
Recommended reading: Ecclesiastes 7 and 8 in the morning; Ecclesiastes 9 and Psalm 39 in the evening
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