DAILY READING
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REFLECTION
Picture of Perfect Peace
by Judy Webb
"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust you." (Isaiah 23:3a)
I love the word steadfast. It has such a connotation of strength and steadiness about it. The dictionary defines it as: fixed, resolute, firm faith, unwavering adherence, firmly fixed in place. I am thinking that maybe the reason this word is so compelling is because our world feels like anything but steadfast. During a season of my life, when so much was up in the air, so many things were going wrong, just the thought of a steadfast environment seemed out of reach.
One commentary pointed out that perfect peace is often conveyed with the words, Shalom, Shalom. Repetition communicates intensity, as in Perfect Peace. Whole mind is stayed on You (settled on, established upon). It is a matter of our mind.
"Love the LORD with all our mind," (Matthew 22:37)
"We are transformed by the renewing of our minds." (Revelation 12:2)
"We can have the mind of Christ." (1 Corinthians 2:16, Philippians 2:5)
"We are not to set our minds on earthly things." (Philippians 3:19)
"Set our minds on things above." (Colossians 3:2)
To have this Perfect Peace, our minds cannot occasionally come to the Lord; it has to be stayed on Him. (Not on ourselves, our problems or problem people.) Satan loves to get our minds on anything but Jesus. I find I often turn to Proverbs 3:5; "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." These words focus me in the moment and clear my mind for Jesus to lean into me and give a warm hug.
Where we set our mind is essential in our walk before the Lord. As I examine my early walk and consider the role my mind played in getting right with God, I can see how vital it is to be engaged in this manner. As I read and study His Word, I pause in prayer to open my mind to what God wants to impart. Sometimes it is encouragement, other times it can be teaching and informing. Some days I feel a sense of peace and thrill in the sensation.
PRAYER PRACTICE
Then spend some time praying and asking God to show you what you need to pay attention to in the text just read. Consider where your peace comes from, what is it that helps you feel safe and content. Embrace that and practice praying for more of this harmony in your life.
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