“And the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, PEACE, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self control.”

Galatians 5:22-23

If your life is anything like mine, “peaceful” is probably one of the last words I would use to describe my day to day. The good thing about these verses is that these qualities don’t have to describe your circumstances but are to describe your state of mind.

If you have ever been to church, you have probably heard these verses before but I want to challenge you today with a new thought. In looking at the original language for the word “peace” the definition states: “in Christianity: the tranquil state of the soul, assured of its salvation in Christ, and therefore fearing nothing from God and content with his earthly lot, of whatever sort it is”

The challenge is how to live this out in practical life. Three verses from scripture I think can help with this:

1) Take your thoughts captive if they don’t point to Christ

“We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5

We do this with scripture that combats the issue at hand.

2) Pray with Petition and Thanksgiving

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

3) Always set your mind on things above.

Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Colossians 3:1

Instead of comparing your problems, “check them” in light of eternity and see if your perspective changes a bit.

Ask the Lord if you have the fruit of the spirit of peace. God is not a God of confusion. He wants to help guide us if we are off track. I am convinced that those who really live with peace in this day and age will shine brightly for Christ.

Try it and see what happens…