Peace

 February 8, 2021

St. Paul has an interesting turn of phrases in the fourth chapter of his letter to the Philippian church. In verses 7-9 he says,

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.”

When instead of worrying we pray with thanksgiving, the peace of God guards our hearts and minds. When we focus our minds on the good and honorable things of life, the God of peace comes to us. In other words, prayer brings God’s peace, but centering our lives upon that which is good brings God’s presence. Were I forced to choose between the two, I would choose the God of peace over the peace of God. It may seem a small difference, but the presence of God ensures not only peace, but protection, provision, and purpose. 

Bringing all things to God in prayer is good; bringing God into all things through what I choose to think about is better. Best is when I pray about everything and then direct my thoughts to the good things God is doing in answer to those prayers. Often, we miss seeing the answers because we aren’t looking for them. We pray, then forget to think, to meditate, and in so doing, isolate ourselves from the presence of the God who alone gives peace.