RPG Adults
HOW TO BE AT PEACE
THURSDAY, JULY 28
Philippians 4:4-8
Romans 5:1-5
“…teach me thy statutes.”
HOW TO BE AT PEACE
As we view the world today, we do not see a very encouraging scene. Wars, terrorism, financial difficulties and pandemics seem to be the rule of the day. In the midst of such turmoil, only those who know Christ as their Saviour can live with a sense of peace, that is, contentment in their lives. Scripture here speaks of three things that make the peace of God a reality in the Christian life.
First, we should be joyful in our daily lives (Phil 4:4). The Christians to whom this command was first written were living under great persecution. The Apostle Paul himself was actually in prison as he wrote these words. Yet these early Christians had learned an encouraging truth. The sufferings of the Christian last but for a moment in eternity’s scheme of things (2 Cor 4:17). With such promises in mind, the difficulties of life can be faced with great joy.
Second, Christians facing the difficulties of life should learn to live in “moderation” (Phil 4:5). Moderation speaks of gentleness and consistency. It is the quality that means one does not easily have his feelings hurt, become easily angered by unfair treatment or quickly discouraged. The reminder is given: “The Lord is at hand” (Phil 4:5). We can live a consistent Christian life when we remember this truth.
Finally, we must be men and women of prayer (Phil 4:6). “Be careful for nothing” means not to be full of cares, i.e. not to worry. We take our burdens to the Lord and allow Him to give us strength to bear those burdens (Ps 55:22; 1 Pet 5:7).
When we are joyful, consistent and prayerful, then the peace of God will keep our hearts and minds safe from the troubles of this world (Phil 4:7). We will be able to think of the lovely things of God, and thus be filled with the wonder and joy of all He means to us as His children (Phil 4:8-9).
THOUGHT: How can I allow God’s peace to rule in my heart?
PRAYER: Father, help me to remember that the troubles of today last but a moment when compared to eternity.