THE PEACE OF GOD*By JON D. BEKEMEYER, Pastor

THE PEACE OF GOD*
*By JON D. BEKEMEYER, Pastor *

Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:6,7; Colossians 3: 15

It is important to distinguish between peace with God and the peace of
God. Peace with God is a positional truth resulting from our
justification (being declared righteous) by faith. Our righteous
standing means that the enmity between ourselves and the Lord has been
removed and there is now peace (Romans 5:1). On the other hand, the
peace of God is a practical truth relating to one's personal experience
with the Lord.

A believer may know of his position in Christ and still lack inner
peace. The pressures of society today are very extreme and many
believers are tormented by anxiety and turmoil within. As long as this
continues one can never be all that he should be for the Lord.

The Biblical cure for anxiety is found in Philippians 4:6,7: take
everything to the Lord in prayer and supplication. This verse indicates
that such prayer does not involve meaningless generalities, but specific
requests. The promised result is not the same as that which was promised
to the Twelve in connection with their special enduement with power
("Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do"), but the promise
of peace. The circumstances may not change. The difficulties may not go
away. What we are promised is the peace of God, a peace that is beyond
comprehension.

Lest any reader feel short-changed, we should all reflect on what a
great blessing this is. Though the Lord does not promise to change the
circumstances, He does promise the ability to victoriously endure them.
Truly, "Godliness with contentment is great gain."

*The Spirit of God uses the Word of God to change the people of God.—ODB