PAUL'S INTERESTING TAKE ON PEACE

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When you hear the word “peace,” what image comes to your mind? Maybe a gentle white dove flying, or a quiet sea. It could also be a cup of coffee by the window, or the calming sound of rain. We may all imagine different things, but I’m sure we all think of something calming and gentle. Paul’s picture of peace from God is quite different. He describes it as a soldier that guards and protects.

In Philippians 4:7 Paul said, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard (Gk: phrouréō) your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” The Greek word phrouréō has a military sense, coming from the word phrourós which means “sentinel or soldier.” The word means “to guard (keep watch) like a military sentinel; (figuratively) to actively display whatever defensive and offensive means are necessary to guard.” (HELPS Word-Studies). It seems Paul used irony to emphasize how powerful the kind of peace God can provide really is.

The Philippian church was facing many trials: persecution (1:30), internal conflicts (4:2–3), and false teachers (3:2). This kind of peace surely encouraged them to face these struggles. Not only is it supernatural in nature (“peace of God”), it also goes beyond human comprehension (“which surpasses all understanding”). The same promise is available for us today to face whatever problems we have. This extraordinary peace can not only calm our hearts and minds—it can also keep them safe! Amazing!

How can we experience this amazing peace of God? In the same context, Paul gives several ways to receive it: Rejoice in the Lord (v. 4). Be gentle (v. 5). Pray and be grateful (v. 6). Think godly (v. 8). Practice godliness (v. 9). Through these things, we can expect the God of peace to be with us in whatever we face (v. 9).

Brother/Sister, no matter how heavy or overwhelming your burdens are right now, you can entrust them to the Lord. “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Pet 5:7). God is more than willing to give His children a peace that goes far beyond what we can understand.

Lord, let us experience Your peace as we face the challenges of life. Stay Curious.

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