The Practical Peace That Jesus Gives

So often, we get too wrapped up in the cares and concerns of this world and of this journey called life.  It is easy to do.  Paul writes about getting wrapped up in things of this world (Rom. 8:6; 14:17-19). Too often, we let minor things become major, which is wrong.  When things, which in the big picture for us on our sojourn to heaven, get in the way of our peace, our oneness and our quietness with each other, it is wrong. Our fruits of righteousness must be sewn in peace as we live in peace (Jas. 3:18).  We must always try to keep a unity in the Spirit, living in good comfort, of one mind, knowing that our lives must be shod (or bound) with the gospel of peace (2 Cor. 13:11; Eph. 4:3; 6:15).
 
Our peace comes from the blood of the cross of Jesus (Col. 1:20).  It is because of that cross and what it means that we must flee our “youthful lust” (2 Tim. 2:22; 1 Pet. 3:11). Those lusts may include the kind of entertainment we participate in, the way we dress, and the associations and friends by whom we surround ourselves.  We must flee from those things which hinder us on our path to heaven.  It is only by following righteousness, faith, love, and peace that we can call on the Lord with a pure and righteous heart.  It is only if we hunger and thirst after righteousness (Matt. 5:6) that we can be found in peace, without spot, and blameless (2 Pet. 2:14).
Finally, the prisoner Paul states, “And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 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. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you” (Phil. 4:7-9).  Yes, we can have an internal peace that will enhance this journey we call life, but it can only be had by pursuing those thing that God commands of us and by obeying Him.
— David McDonald; Lakeside church of Christ

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