Guard Your Peace

As I sought guidance in prayer about what to share with God’s people today, I heard the word peace. 

In today’s world, many are struggling with hopelessness and confusion. The challenges we face are numerous—work-related stress, physical illness, financial struggles, marital issues, and questions about our walk with Christ. The very foundations we rely on are being attacked daily. We witness the decline of the church, with pastors abandoning their ministries, feeling as though there are no answers, no relief, no hope.

Amid the chaos of today's events—plane crashes, soaring rent prices, bankruptcies, job loss, and the rise in mental health challenges like anxiety, panic attacks, and depression—we must hold on to God's peace.

John 16:33 reminds us: "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world."

But what is peace?

Webster’s Dictionary defines peace as a state of quiet or tranquility, or freedom from disturbance or agitation. It also refers to freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions.

In Greek and Hebrew, peace is referred to as eirēnē and Shalom. Eirēnē is often used in the New Testament to describe the peace brought by Christ—tranquility and harmony. Shalom is a multifaceted Hebrew word, not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of positive blessings—health, safety, and prosperity. It speaks of harmonious relationships, both with others and with God, and encompasses a sense of wholeness and well-being, both physically and spiritually.

When our peace is disturbed, our emotions take over, and our spirits become agitated. It’s like a virus that enters our being and throws us off balance. This is why we cannot allow anything or anyone who is not rooted in the truth of God’s Word to influence our lives.

Colossians 3:15 says, "And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful." This scripture is vital because what or who rules your heart ultimately controls your mind. You are a joint heir with Christ, and He should have full control of your mind. Your mind, in turn, controls your emotions and decisions. If we don’t give God complete ownership of our hearts, we will be like the old hymn says, “Like a ship without a sail.”

Remember, we stand on Christ, the solid rock. He is our firm foundation, and we can rest assured that He has everything under control. Isaiah 26:3 promises, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Him, because he trusts in you.”

I want to encourage you today to shift your focus from your circumstances and trust God once again. We must heed the call of 2 Corinthians 10:4, which tells us, “For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of strongholds.”

I prophetically pronounce Shalom over you today—may you be filled with well-being, health, and prosperity.

Kingdom Blessings,

Pastor Kristy Jackson