Philippians 4:4-8
4Rejoice in the LORD always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The LORD is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.
These verses are some that should be reflected on often as believers, especially in these times when we are being bombarded by negativity and fear-based information. When we are faced with the different trials of life, our peace—or lack thereof— is a direct reflection of the time we’ve spent in the Father’s presence and where we’ve placed our focus. Our Father is able to give us the peace which surpasses all understanding but only when we truly dwell in Him. This requires a real intimate relationship with the Lord, and a surrendering of our heart, mind, and will.
One of the most amazing times of my life was actually when my husband had been laid off. I was in the hospital having our 6th child while getting phone calls that they were about to foreclose on our home, and my vehicle was about to be repossessed. How is that amazing, right? During that time, I was digging deep into the Word of our Father and in prayer daily. The only way I can describe what was inside of me was a peace that surpasses all understanding. Did I have moments where I cried and broke? Of course. But the Holy Spirit always helped me to refocus and press on. Our Father’s love for us is unchanging and His Word remains true. When we find ourselves in a place where we are lacking His peace, we should return to Him. We should reflect on where our intimacy with Him may be falling short and what we’ve allowed to steal our focus.
