God of Peace (reflection)
I love when I hear a message or sermon and then in a day or two Holy Spirit reminds me of it to apply the Word. That happened this week, and I want to share the experience with you. I caught a part of Dr. Dollar on TV teaching about the peace of God. He taught that peace is not the absence of problems, but that peace is possible in the middle of problems. Peace is not the escape or the end result, but one can possess peace in the process.
This week I had a situation where I was led to go to a sister in Christ and have “that talk”. You know, the talk you initiate out of obedience because she (or he) will never say anything about their hurt or offense. Ugh, I do not like to initiate these because they are draining. Thankfully, the exchanges were mostly beneficial and somewhat informative. There was understanding at the end of it.
But before I got to understanding, I was flat-out mad. Lord, what the what?! Show me something about WHY you had me start this conversation. This was on the drive home from work before I received this sister’s last email. I drove in silence and was reminded of Dr. Dollar’s words on peace…then two verses came to mind. Then a third wiped me out.
First, FOLLOW PEACE. Hebrews 12:14. We love that “without holiness no man shall see the Lord” part, don’t we? But that verse begins with “follow peace with all men”. Follow is not a peace-keeping instruction, but a peace-making directive. Get that – follow means to strive for peace. There has to be a labor for peace, which may require us to speak up. Note: Peace is not the passive aggressive “well I’ll just keep my mouth shut” silence.
Second, the GOD OF PEACE. 1 Thessalonians 5:23. This was part of Paul’s prayer, that the God of peace sanctify wholly (entirely). This blessed me in the context of that day’s events. God’s peace sets us apart to Him. Peace may result in separation.
Finally, BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS. Matthew 5:9. Getting to God’s peace is an active labor. The blessing is on us for working for peace, not in letting things remain as they are. I realized through this scriptural trifecta that God was giving me a gift, and that He introduced Himself to me as the God of peace. Now, my relationship with Him broadens and deepens.
This is important because I used to think peace came at the end of a storm. I thought that peace was a reward for “going through”. It was a subtle error in belief, that my test qualifies me for peace. That’s a works mentality, and so off the mark. My precious Kingdom Queens, that is not the case. The God of peace works in us sanctification (separation). It’s not the carnal “everyone can’t go with me in this season” stuff…although that may be true. But the peace is in allowing God to teach us this part of His nature. It is shaping my perspective, to consider that He is a very present help in His peace. Hallelujah.
Go with God today…the God of peace. Selah, and love to all.
2 Comments on “God of Peace (reflection)”
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The Bereans' Commentary with Shaunta D. Scroggins, Ed.D. 
Wow. On time again. I will add this insight to my own trifecta from last week, as I was struggling with a conflict.
The first scripture God gave me was Psalms 119:165 Great peace have they that love thy law, and nothing shall offend them.
The second was Isaiah 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace…
The third was the ‘how’ for me. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Philippians 4:8 KJV)
Thank you so much for this insight and revelation! I am in the midst of a great opportunity to put it into practice! God bless!
Oh wow. Your last entry hit me right between the eyes. And Psalm 119:165?! Well, that’s been a staple for me for a while. Isn’t it interesting how these sets of verses are “better” in principle and not as easily lived? God is so kind to allow His Word to witness of itself and open our eyes. I’ve known the name of God as the Prince of Peace, even that His peace will rule my heart and mind if I focus on Christ. Who I did not know was the God of peace. This is an exciting time to know Him…especially at His invitation. Love you Sis.