“A Proven Pattern For Peace”

Date: 10/12/2011
Speaker: Pastor Johnny H. Moore

We are living in a day where everyone is crying, “Peace, peace: when there is no peace” (Jeremiah 6:14).   There are days when it seems that peace will surely come; but then again, we feel it slip through our hands. You see, peace is not something that can be obtained by the signing of a “peace-agreement.”  A peace agreement cannot settle the restlessness of the heart.  This kind of peace only comes as a result of a relationship with Jesus Christ.

     Yes, today, in the midst of a confused and troubled world, the child of God can experience, and walk in “peace that passeth all understanding.”  As a Christian, peace is a part of our inheritance. In Philippians 4:4-7, the Apostle Paul gives us a proven pattern for peace.  Let’s take a look…

     Step #1—We Must Maintain a Proper Attitude Toward Praise:  Paul says for us to, “Rejoice in the Lord always” (verse 4).  As a Christian, rejoicing and praise should not be awkward, or difficult for us to do.  Some Christians get nervous when others begin to rejoice, but Paul encourages all Christians to rejoice always!

Step #2—We Must Maintain a Proper Attitude Toward Problems:  In verse 6, he says, “Be careful for nothing…”  The word “careful” means to be anxious about or to worry.  Paul is exhorting us to have the right attitude toward problems.  Most of the time, it is not our problems that defeat us, but instead, our attitude toward the problems.  So, “Don’t worry, be happy!”

Step #3—We Must Maintain a Proper Attitude Toward Prayer:  The scripture says (verse 6), “Be careful for nothing: but in every thing by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God.”  In other words, Paul tells us “do not worry about anything, but pray about everything.”  Prayer can make the difference!  It should not always be our last resort.  Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).  God is more willing to answer prayer than we are to pray!

Step #4—We Must Demonstrate a Proper Attitude Toward God’s Promises:  Paul shares God’s promise that, “the peace of God that passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (verse 7).  Now, if we believe this verse is true, then, we must act like it.  In Ephesians 5:19-20, Paul tells us, “speak to yourselves in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.”  As we do this, we become encouraged in the Lord and the peace of God begins to rule in our hearts.

God will not fail you.  His “peace-agreement” will always work.  Follow it today and experience God’s peace!

Download