“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.
Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” - (John 14:27)
Jesus said that one of signs of the End-Times would be increasing turmoil in the world. We certainly see that all around us today: environmental concerns, medical concerns, terrorism, and political turmoil dominate our headlines. “For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.”
The truth is that no human government will ever be able to create lasting peace in this world. Only those under God’s government are able to experience real peace. “Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end.”
As believers we need to be careful that what goes on around us isn’t what goes on inside of us!
“Let the peace of God rule in your hearts.”- (Col 3:15) "Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls." - (Prov 25:28)
A nation can never be at peace if the citizens who make up that nation have no peace. The government of God on earth starts with the government of God in our hearts. "Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers." - (3 John 2). The soul is made up of your mind, will, and emotions. It is what regulates the flow of God’s blessing into our lives and through our lives towards those around us.
Characteristics of a Soul Under God’s Control
1) A mind that meditates regularly on the word of God. (Rom 8:6, Rom12:2, Josh 1:8.) A mind that is filled with God’s thoughts will also be filled with God’s peace. "You will keep him. In perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You." - (Isaiah 26:3). “Peace that passes all understanding.” - (Phil 4:6-9).
2) A will that is settled to do the will of God regardless of the cost. Many people have no peace because they are at war with themselves! God’s peace comes when we are under God’s government, trusting in Him and fully surrendered to His will. “O my Father, if it is possible, let this this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will." - (Matt 26:39). "I delight to do Your will, O my God, and Your law is within my heart." - (Psalm 40:8).
3) Emotions that are under the control of the Holy Spirit and do not control the way we live. This doesn’t mean that we should restrict or quash our emotions. But neither do we allow them to dictate our decisions and directions in life. “A man of understanding is of a calm spirit.” - (Prov 17:27). "Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad." - (Prov 12:25-26).
Dr. George HillPresident & Founder
Victory Churches International