Peace
Scripture Reading — Philippians 4:4-7
The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7
Philippians is sometimes called one of Paul’s “prison letters.” That’s because Paul wrote this letter while imprisoned, probably in Rome (see Philippians 1:12-14). While the details of Paul’s imprisonment are sketchy, it probably was similar to what we would call “house arrest” today. Acts 28:16-31 describes the situation. Despite being bound with chains, Paul was able to share the gospel during his two-year imprisonment in Rome.
Even though Paul enjoyed some freedom while living under house arrest, he was carefully guarded by a Roman soldier. Paul was probably chained to whoever was responsible for guarding him. That’s helpful to know, because when Paul writes about the peace of God that “guards” our hearts, he uses a word that was common in military jargon. Paul may have been chained to a soldier, but he was also connected to a much higher authority. Paul belonged to God and was protected by the peace of God.
God gives his people that same peace to today. That’s why so many believers feel protected and at ease in situations that would otherwise make them feel worried and discouraged.
Are you feeling anxious and afraid today? The peace of Jesus is available to help (see John 14:27). He cares for you and wants you to have peace.
Lord Jesus, grant us your peace. Thank you for providing it. We surely need it. Keep us close to you so that we will always feel protected by the power of your love. Amen.
About the author — Peter Hoytema
Peter Hoytema has been a pastor for nearly 30 years and has served congregations in Ontario and New Jersey. He is currently the pastor of a congregation in Strathroy, Ontario. He is a graduate of Calvin Theological Seminary and San Francisco Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Grace, are the parents of four adult children.
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