In what ways can we seek God's peace in our own lives today? When God Grants Rest “Then the land had rest forty years, and Othniel son of Kenaz died.” (Judges 3:11) Israel enjoyed literal, political rest because the LORD raised up a deliverer. The same God still offers genuine peace—shalom—today. Recognizing the Source of Peace • Peace is not circumstantial; it is God Himself. • Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You.” • John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you.” • Just as Israel’s calm followed divine intervention, our rest follows trusting the Deliverer, Jesus. Living Under the Lord’s Deliverance • Repent and believe the gospel—peace starts with restored relationship (Romans 5:1). • Submit daily to Christ’s rule; His yoke is easy, His burden light (Matthew 11:28-30). Practical Paths to Enjoy God’s Peace • Consistent Scripture intake – Psalm 119:165 – “Abundant peace belongs to those who love Your law.” • Persistent prayer – Philippians 4:6-7 – approach every anxiety “by prayer and petition… and the peace of God… will guard your hearts.” • Obedient living – Isaiah 32:17 – “The work of righteousness will be peace.” • Spirit-led thinking – Romans 8:6 – “The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” • Worship and gratitude – Colossians 3:15 – let Christ’s peace “rule in your hearts… and be thankful.” • Fellowship with believers – Hebrews 10:24-25 – mutual encouragement steadies wavering hearts. • Peacemaking actions – Matthew 5:9 – Peacemakers reflect their Father and experience His peace. Guarding the Gift • Reject sin quickly (Psalm 32:3-5); unconfessed sin robs peace. • Renounce worry and fix thoughts on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable (Philippians 4:8). • Rest physically; God ordained Sabbath rhythms (Exodus 20:8-11). Looking Forward The forty-year rest in Judges was temporary. A greater, eternal rest awaits all who persevere (Hebrews 4:9-11). Until then, “May the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way” (2 Thessalonians 3:16). |
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