You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.
Isaiah 26:3 NIV
Kept in Peace
In 1994, genocide and ethnic cleansing broke out in Rwanda. The previous year, Canada had sent more than 400 troops to Rwanda as part of a UN mission to bring stability and order to the small African nation. The mission was commanded by Canadian General Roméo Dallaire. However, there was little peacekeepers could do to keep the peace or prevent the genocide, as they were not allowed to use force. Dallaire requested more troops and permission to take preventive action but was denied by the UN.
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We all experience peace from time to time and those moments are memorable. They can come when we are in a place where we see God’s creation at its most beautiful or while listening to some moving piece of music. But then life breaks in and the peace soon dissipates. While this peace is wonderful, it is not the peace that God offers through faith in Jesus Christ. In Isaiah 26:3 we read this: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” First, notice that God’s peace is perfect – it never falters and never fades. It is eternal and it is the foundation of how we respond to everything that life brings our way. Second, it calls us to keep our minds steadfast on the Lord. It is only when we turn away from the Lord and walk in our own selfish ways that the peace lifts. Finally, His peace is given to all who trust Him. If you want peace, it demands perfect faith and trust in Jesus, keeping our minds and hearts on Him alone.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley