Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Philippians 4:6-8 NIV
Perfect Peace
One of the most peaceful places near where I live is Pelee Island, a 90-minute ferry ride from Leamington, Ontario. Pelee Island is the most southern point in Canada and is one of the country’s best kept secrets. The remote location is full of abundant wildlife with over 300 types of birds, as well as rare plant species that exist nowhere else in Canada. Take your bike on the ferry and spend the day leisurely riding throughout this unique and peaceful island.
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While they long for peace and freedom, far too many people are suffering the effects of war and mistreatment at the hands of those who are their enemies. Peace is such a fleeting thing, both in the macro of the geopolitical events, and in the micro of our hearts and minds. The day will come when God will end all wars and will bring justice for those who have suffered cruelly. But right now, He offers to all His inner peace. Philippians 4:6-8 says: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” Jesus is the only source of inner peace. Only through His death and resurrection can we have our sins forgiven and peace with God secured. As Paul says here, that peace transcends understanding, but it is real, and it does guard our hearts and minds.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley