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Good morning,
Peace. When you think of that word, do you envision you on a beach with waves crashing in the distance with a somewhat shady day, or, maybe you see yourself curled up in a corner reading a book (or any other hobby or past time that you enjoy) without a problem in the world? Well, I have it on God's authority, that is not what peace is. Jesus said; "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) I am always reminded that peaceful outward situations may change at anytime, storms are always brewing, and we are not always aware from which direction, but we that are spirit-filled can sense when trouble is on the horizon. So, if we are told that in the world you and I would have tribulations, then we need to learn and be constantly practicing staying in Him, because He said He has overcome the world! The peace that we are longing for is in Him, not in pleasurable moments of peace. You know those times when we experience the absence of storms, troubles, or tribulations. I hate to say the old adage, "that it is during the most difficult times, if we trust and lean [our whole human personality] on Him, that we become the strongest." But remember what was said to Paul as he was struggling with an issue and desiring 'peace' from it; "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."(2 Corin. 12:9-10) So our peace [exemption from the rage and havoc of war; harmony, concord, security, safety, prosperity, felicity, (because peace and harmony make and keep things safe and prosperous); the tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and content with its earthly lot, of whatsoever sort that is] this tall order that we all desire, can be had at all times irregardless of the outward signs of storms, tribulations, or troubles, it is as we are hidden in him. That is what the psalmist discovered as he was dealing with all kinds of war and tribulations from the outside, but being kept by the peace from within. "For this [forgiveness] let everyone who is godly pray--pray to You in a time when You may be found; surely when the great waters [of trial] overflow, they shall not reach [the spirit in] him.You are a hiding place for me; You, Lord, preserve me from trouble, You surround me with songs and shouts of deliverance. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!" ( Psalm 32:6-7) Yes, it is for all who know the Lord to have this access to the hiding place, the place of peace, even while the great waters of trial overflow, they will not reach our spirit. Why? Mainly because we have learned by practice that; "You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You." (Is.26:3) There is no doubt that the enemy is always trying to get us to move away from this peace by creating storms and overflows of trouble, but don't let him have your peace. Stay secure, safe, prosperous, out of the rage of war, and enjoy the hiding place of God!
Love,
Pastor D.
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