Several years ago, I wrote a song for a dear friend who was going through a horrible trial. I failed to find words to say that would ease her pain and banish her fears. But I found I could sing the message, and it would reach into her heart in a way that no simple speaking could do:
Your mighty peace
Will comfort me
When all around the storms besiege
I will hide
Beneath Your wing
And rest my soul
In Your mighty peace.
Though Satan lie
And tempt me sore
Within Your word I am secure
I will stand
Forevermore
Your mighty peace
Will win each war.
--JEL
When Kevin heard it he said, “Isn’t that kind of contradictory? I never thought of God’s peace being mighty. It is calm and soothing.” And being the submissive wife that I am, I said, “You are right, Dear,” and quickly changed it.
Absolutely not. I left it just as it was. Because to me, when you are fighting a battle with the devil, whether it be poor health, challenges in your finances, or a messed up relationship, God’s peace in the midst of all that turmoil is the most powerful weapon there is.
Don’t you know it just drives Satan nuts when he is throwing his best problems and worst lies at you, and you go to God’s word, claiming His promises, then simply rest in Him, refusing to panic or worry? You find a favorite Scripture, and say it over and over to yourself to keep your mind focused on the answer rather than the problem. That will cause the peace to come and the devil to run.
I don’t understand how the words in a book called the Bible can be so alive that they bring peace to my troubled soul, but that’s ok; I don’t need to understand it for it to work. The Apostle Paul said that God’s peace “passes understanding.” (Phil. 4:8) It jumps the track of our reasoning, and goes straight to the heart, where it can do the most good.
His peace is mighty. And it’s available to you. Just open the Book and dig in.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: A spunky, sometimes reluctant pastor’s wife of thirty-six years, Jeanette Levellie has published articles, greeting card verses, stories and calendar poems. She authors a bi-weekly humor/inspirational column in her local newspaper, and enjoys speaking to church and civic groups, offering hope and humor in every message. Jen is the mother of two, grandmother of three, and waitress to several cats. Find her blog, On Wings of Mirth and Worth, at http://jeanettelevellie.blogspot.com/
The Pastor's Wife Speaks is a safe place for women living on the front lines of ministry to share and support each other. But you don't have to be married to a pastor to hang out here. Regardless of how you're connected to ministry, you are welcome. Enjoy and be blessed!
Your posting reminds me of the time when Isaiah 26:3 became a weapon of warfare for me... Thou will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is STAYED on Thee.
ReplyDeleteWhen you talk about God's peace being the most powerful weapon in the midst of life's struggles, I found that to be true, true, true during some of the darkest days of my life. I also find it to be true in the little stresses of life too.
When the spirit of fear would threaten to overwhelm me, I would speak that word from Isaiah, forcing my mind to submit to its promise.......if I kept my mind on HIM then perfect peace would come. It was a struggle to trust it.
But when I did -- to my delight and utter joy it always came -- most often it felt like a warm blanket that I would actually feel settle over my thoughts, my trembling emotions and my weary body.
The peace always came.
So, yes, Jeanette, I believe with you His peace is Mighty. Nothing wishy-washy about it at all.
Yes, He is mighty to save! And gives mighty peace. Yor lyrics are beautiful; a powerful message. Today I was directed to Phillipians 2:14-16 "Do everything without complaining or arguing...in which you shine like stars in the universe." You shine Jeanette!
ReplyDeleteLove this, Jen! God's peace IS powerful - trusting in Him rather than doubting is huge, allowing us to walk in the Spirit and not give in to our flesh. So glad you put into words this fact: "I don’t understand how the words in a book called the Bible can be so alive that they bring peace to my troubled soul, but that’s ok; I don’t need to understand it for it to work" And a BIG Amen to that!! Have a blessed Easter!
ReplyDeleteBrenda: I admire this in you, that you kept at it when your emotions screamed and threw a fit. You overcame! Glory to God!!!
ReplyDeleteLynn: I need that one on my palm, to see it every minute. Thanks for the reminder!
Maria: Yes, doubt is an insiduous enemy, not just a little bad habit.
Blessed Easter to you, too! ---Jen
Amen! A couple of weeks ago you commented on my blog about releasing my kids from the nest. I took your wise advice and sat down with my Bible turned to Psalm 91 and prayed through it aloud for the first time in a long while. The peace that rolled through me when I finished was amazing. Of course, then I wanted to kick myself... why hadn't I done it sooner? : )
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
Jeanette:
ReplyDeleteGod's word is mighty. So, why can't his peace be the same?
I find hope in Psalm 138:8 in the King James. I found this passage (:7-8)at a time when I felt I was facing a very tough issue. I still find comfort in the idea that "God perfects that which concerns(us.)
Blessings on you and yours as you minister in His name.
Oh, I love this, Jeanette! "It jumps the track of our reasoning..." Great line, and great truth. Thank you, dear girl.
ReplyDeletePhilippians 4:8 is one of my favorite verses. And I agree, "mighty peace" is the perfect wording.
ReplyDeleteYour posts are always so motivating and I always leave with a stronger feeling of attraction towards Him:) Thank you:)
ReplyDeleteNiki: Thank you for sharing this victory story. I'm honored that the Lord used my cheerleading to help you, honey. But...no more kicking yourself, okay? At least you DID obey!
ReplyDeleteQuiet: I love that verse too, and claim it for my children, since their lives concern me.
Rhonda: Thanks. You always encourage me, friend!
Susan: I am nourished by Phil. 4:8, too. Have you read it in The Message translation?
Nehha: Thank you for saying that; it makes my day!
His peace is indeed mighty! Thanks for reminding us of the power of His Word!
ReplyDelete