Perfect Peace
You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You. Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV)
Isaiah 26:3 is one of the Old Testaments most loved verses, a promise of peace made possible by remaining focused on God. But its the context of this promise that makes it so inviting. Israel was eagerly anticipating the Day of the Lord, when God would rain down judgement upon His peoples enemies. Although their present circumstances were full of turmoil, the Israelites had no reason to be anxious. Rather, they were to keep their minds “stayed”, focused steadfastly on the strength of God.
The image of battles is a good one for all who desire to keep their hearts and minds in peace. Christians are in battle. For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled. 2 Corinthians 10:3-6 (NKJV)
Perfect Peace The Whole Armor of God
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints Ephesians 6:10-18 (NKJV)
We battle against principalities and powers that would seek to take our minds off the God of our salvation. Anything the devil can do to make us doubt God’s love, Christ’s sufficiency, and the power of the Holy Spirit he will do. Peace is kept by staying focused on who God is and what God says.
Perfect Peace
Today before heading into battle, focus your mind on the great and precious promises of God by which you will be kept in perfect peace.