Walking In The Peace Of God Series

Title: WALKING IN THE PEACE OF GOD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 4:7

"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Supporting Texts: John 14:27; Colossians 3:15; Isaiah 26:3; Romans 5:1; Matthew 11:28-30

INTRODUCTION:

Peace is a vital aspect of the Christian life. In a world filled with turmoil, fear, and uncertainty, the peace of God stands as an anchor for the soul. This peace is not the absence of trouble but a supernatural peace that transcends human understanding. It is a peace that can only come from God, available to those who walk closely with Him and trust in His sovereignty. The peace of God guards our hearts and minds, helping us to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and serenity.

1. THE NATURE OF GOD'S PEACE

God’s peace is distinct from the peace the world offers. It is eternal, unshakeable, and beyond comprehension.

a) Peace Beyond Understanding

God’s peace surpasses human logic and reasoning. It is a divine peace that gives us calm even in the most stressful situations (Philippians 4:7).

b) Peace That Guards the Heart

This peace acts as a protector, guarding our hearts and minds from anxiety, fear, and worry (Philippians 4:7).

c) A Gift from Christ

The peace we experience comes through Jesus Christ, who is the Prince of Peace. It is a gift given to believers (John 14:27).

d) Peace in the Midst of Trials

Unlike worldly peace, which is temporary and fragile, God’s peace remains with us even in the midst of trials and persecution (John 16:33).

e) Biblical Example:

Jesus sleeping in the storm (Mark 4:35-41) is a powerful example of the peace that comes from trusting in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

2. HOW TO RECEIVE GOD'S PEACE

Receiving the peace of God requires a certain mindset and relationship with God.

a) Trust in God's Sovereignty

Peace flows from trusting that God is in control of every situation and that He works all things for our good (Romans 8:28).

b) Praying with Thanksgiving

Prayer and thanksgiving create an atmosphere for God’s peace. When we bring our worries to God in prayer, His peace replaces our anxieties (Philippians 4:6-7).

c) Surrendering Worry and Anxiety

To experience God's peace, we must surrender our worries and anxieties to Him. God promises peace when we cast our cares on Him (1 Peter 5:7).

d) Being Mindful of God's Word

Meditating on God’s Word fills our hearts with peace. The Scriptures remind us of God’s promises and faithfulness, which calms our spirits (Isaiah 26:3).

e) Biblical Example:

David, amidst distress, chose to trust in God’s faithfulness, and his heart was filled with peace (Psalm 23:1-4).

3. THE ROLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN WALKING IN GOD’S PEACE

The Holy Spirit plays an essential role in helping believers experience and maintain the peace of God.

a) The Spirit’s Ministry of Peace

The Holy Spirit is the one who imparts peace into our hearts. He is called the Comforter and helps us to experience peace even in times of distress (John 14:26-27).

b) Guidance into Peaceful Living

The Holy Spirit guides believers into peaceful living by helping us make decisions that align with God’s will and leading us away from conflict (Romans 8:14).

c) Conviction of Sin and Peace

The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, leading to repentance and restoring peace with God (Romans 5:1).

d) Empowering Us to Live Peaceably

The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live peaceably with others, promoting unity and harmony in relationships (Colossians 3:15).

e) Biblical Example:

Paul and Silas in prison (Acts 16:25-34) experienced the peace of the Holy Spirit even in their chains, as they praised God and trusted in His plan.

4. WALKING IN GOD’S PEACE IN DAILY LIFE

Living in God’s peace is not just about experiencing calm in times of crisis but about walking in peace every day.

a) Living in Peace with Others

The peace of God leads us to pursue peace in our relationships. We are to live at peace with others as far as it depends on us (Romans 12:18).

b) Peace in Our Minds and Thoughts

Walking in peace means allowing our minds to be governed by God’s truth rather than by fear or negativity (Colossians 3:15).

c) Peace in Our Actions and Reactions

Our actions should reflect God’s peace, and our reactions to difficult situations should be marked by calmness and trust in God (Matthew 5:9).

d) Walking in Contentment

The peace of God also brings contentment. We learn to be content in all circumstances because we trust that God will meet our needs (Philippians 4:11-13).

e) Biblical Example:

Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 41:46-49) exemplified peace through his trust in God's timing and provision, even after years of suffering.