"Do nothing from factional motives (through contentiousness, strife, selfishness, or for unworthy ends) or prompted by conceit and empty arrogance. Instead, in true spirit of humility (lowliness of mind) let each regard the others as better than and superior to himself (thinking more highly of one another than you do of yourselves.)" Philippians 2:2-3
- We must be humble, loving, compassionate and courteous.
- We must be willing to forgive quickly and frequently.
- We must not be easily offended and must bless others rather than curse them.
- We must be generous in mercy, and we must be long-suffering (patient)."
(Excerpt form Conflict Free Living by Joyce Meyer published by Charisma House, 2008. This book is an excellent book in helping with our understanding of peace.
She states, "True peace is not found in positive thinking, in absence of conflict, or in good feelings. Our peace in Christ's Kingdom is sure, our destiny is set, and we can have victory over sin."
In Psalm 29:11 tells us that "The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace."
My observation of my own life; and looking at others' lives, I conclude that there is no good living without peace of mind. You can be the richest person on earth, but if you don't have peace of mind, joy will elude you. Fame, riches, and all possessions of greatness will disappoint you if you lack peace of mind. Some of Apostle Paul's most beautiful writings were written while he lived in rat infested jail dungeons with earthen floors. Yet, he calls us to the beautiful peace in the Kingdom of God that he lived in continually with great true joy and fulfillment.
I've worked with the wealthiest people in my community in two different jobs. I recall one of my bosses explaining some of the idiosyncrasies of the powerful wealthy, "Now get ready for them to make big mountains out of tiny molehills. I have discovered since they never worry about what you and I do: paying our bills on time always; they have to make things look bigger than they truly are to have challenges." I don't agree with his conclusions, but I did quickly land in the disharmony of these situations. I would conclude that the false security of earthly riches kept breaking through their consciousness and they lost their peace of mind. God through Jesus Christ offers the only true peace of mind.
So, harmony is worth the pursuit. Our opening scripture tells us we will have to live humbly and not think too highly of ourselves to know God's peace. We will also have to give honor to others and to God Himself.
What value do you place on peace of mind?
2 comments:
We all know the tolls that stress plays on our bodies - the value of 'peace of mind' can never be truly weighed. I have been fighting the flu for the past week, and while I have been slowed down, it did not knock me out - knowing that God will take care of everything even when there is so much to do this time of year is a greater gift than any gift card. Thanks for the reminder!
Peace of mind is very valuable to me. I remember the very first night after my daughters and I had moved away from a destructive, abusive relationship.
I lay in bed that night--just listening to the quiet, not knowing how we were going to make it financially, but I was at peace.
And I called to them in their room, "So, this is what peace must be like!"
Our peace comes from knowing that God is control of every situation that comes along. That is something that I have to remind myself of--I am not in control--no, not me. God is in control!!
Beth
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