Finally, brothers and sisters Rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 3:11
I have a dear friend who texts a Scripture passage out each morning to about 16 people. This was what she sent yesterday, and it struck me that if we want to live in peace, we have to follow this simple formula listed in this Scripture passage.
Anxiety is a multi-billion-dollar industry in the U. S. today. According to goodrx.com 1 in 10 prescriptions filled today are for anxiety or depression medications. We live in a world where there is a great deal to be anxious about. However, knowing God is in control, we should not be anxious. We should live in peace.
We are told in Philippians 4:6-7 that we should not be anxious about anything but should pray about everything with thanksgiving and let our requests be made known to God. We are told that if we do this, the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension will guard our hearts and minds in Jesus Christ.
God directs us to live at peace, but in this world it’s not always so easy. There are times when we become anxious and need help in controlling that anxiety. This doesn’t mean that we are not relying on God. It doesn’t mean that we should never revert to anti-anxiety or anti-depression medications. It does mean, however, that even if we get to a point where we need medication to control our anxiety or depression, we should also focus on what God’s word says we should do to help.
In our Scripture passage today, we are told to rejoice! We should always be grateful and rejoice over the good God has provided for us.
We are told to strive for full restoration. Often times we forfeit peace because we need to be restored with God. Our sin separates us from Him and we need to repent and return to Him.
Sometimes we experience stressful situations because we need relationships restored. We should do our best to make amends and work things out. If they don’t work out, then at least we have done our part. We are told in Romans 12:18 that we should, if possible, live at peace with everyone.
We are warned against stirring strife. Proverbs 28:22 tells us that a man with anger in his heart stirs up strife and one given to anger causes a great deal of sin. We can’t expect to live in peace if we make it our business to cause trouble for others. We are told in Galatians 6:9 that a man reaps what he sows.
Jesus said in Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God.”
Our Scripture passage for today says that we are to do the opposite of stirring strife. We are to encourage one another. We are to be of one mind and live in peace. We are told in Hebrews 12:14 to pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord. Proverbs 16:7-9 says that when a man’s ways are pleasing to God, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Our Scripture passage tells us if we do these things, the peace of God will be with us. That refers to the peace that goes beyond human understanding.
There are enough things in this world to cause anxiety. Jesus said in John 16:33 that we will have trouble in this world, but that we should not be afraid because He has overcome the world. Follow God’s prescription to have peace in your life.
He won’t let you down.
Have a great day!