The Path to Personal Peace!!

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The Path to Personal Peace, Part 1

“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:9)

What an example to follow! How many people could make that statement about themselves? Just put into practice what you have seen and heard from Jesus, and you will experience peace.

Peace is a rare commodity. People spend billions to find peace through drugs, alcohol, pleasure, and other experiences.

Paul shows us the only way to true peace. Peace is sourced in the person of Jesus Christ. Peace comes from God:

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

Paul, who experienced much tribulation, shows us how to tap into the source of this peace. Only people who have a personal relationship with Christ can experience what he is telling us.

So what can we learn, receive, and see in the life of Paul? What behavior do we see in him that we should attempt to practice in our own lives?

First and foremost, Jesus Christ was the focal point of his life:

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21) Everything in Paul’s life centered on the person of Christ. We need to ask ourselves: What is the focus of my life?

Second, through prayer Paul experienced the workings of the Holy Spirit as he focused his thought life on God:

“May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” (2 Corinthians 13:14)  He had communion with the Holy Spirit. Remember, it is the Spirit who searches all things, even the deep things of God. He is the one who imparts divine power and life to our mortal bodies.

“But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” (Romans 8:11)

Third, the Spirit supplies and makes provision for us:

“For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:19) This statement was written when Paul was in prison. The Holy Spirit will supply the peace we are looking for in this turbulent world.

Fourth, Paul summarizes these truths:

“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.” (Philippians 4:6–7)

This “formula” is better than any pill this world can offer. These verses prove the Word of God is truly living and powerful, working in those who practice it.

I am personally working to SOAK, SOW, and FLOW with these passages of Scripture. These are great Spiritual M&Ms!

Today, ask yourself:

Am I looking to worldly provision for inner peace, or am I following the path to peace Paul outlines in the Scripture?

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