And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ's] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always]. Colossians 3:15 AMPC
Most likely, we have all heard it said that the Bible records the command “Fear not” more than 365 times, enough for daily assurance. Add to it the urgings to not be discouraged, and we have abundant witness that God wants us to live on top of our fearful, negative emotions, and that it is possible to do so.
We do know for certain that we will all have troubles. Jesus didn’t hide that fact from us. WE are not invincible. But HE is. Jesus said He has already conquered the world and our worst and most feared enemy, death.
Even though we know that, we can easily allow our minds to be distracted, and when they are, our sly enemy slips in without warning, Fear overcomes us, and we over-think, over-analyze, and paralyze our hearts. The longer we let our minds drift into fear, the more powerless God will seem to us. We will be fearful and discouraged.
Paul experienced every depth of hardship and fear we could possibly face, so he knew what he was talking about when he addressed the Colossian Christians. He told them to let the peace of Christ rule in their hearts, not the fears and worries of the world. It is our choice what rules, the peace of Christ or the fears of the world. “Let” is a permission-giving word. It means “to permit.” That means we don’t beg for peace. Peace is already given to us, but we must willingly welcome it and let the peace of Jesus rule over – decide and settle – the thoughts and situations we have. That peace is the environment in which we are called and privileged to live with Jesus and the rest of His body, the Church.
Along with living in peace, we are called to be grateful, giving thanks to God always in all things. Gratitude IS the healthiest human emotion. When we choose gratitude in the midst of fear-inducing circumstances, the peace of Jesus has wide-open access to our hearts and minds. It’s a cycle. More gratitude, more peace, less fear.
- My Jesus, I know peace is Your gift to me, not fear and worry. Peace is at the door of my life in every situation. Help me welcome Your peace with a heart of gratitude. Amen.