Mayo Clinic just published a “Guide to Stress-Free Living.” Based
on 10 years of research, they discovered that making a few simple changes can help you
let go of stress, and find a sense of peace.
I couldn’t help but see a parallel. Based on a few thousand
years of research, the Bible promises that one simple change can bring you
peace. “God will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are stayed on
Him, because they trust in Him” (Is. 26:3). Note that Mayo Clinic only offers a “sense of peace.” The Bible promises “perfect peace.”
With innumerable 21st century distractions, it is unrealistic to think we can live stress free. So how is it we can enjoy perfect peace? Listen how Jesus speaks to a distracted Martha: “There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it [undivided attention to Jesus]” (Luke 10:41). What a timely, and timeless, reminder: “Fixing your eyes on Jesus” (Heb. 12:2) is the key to perfect peace.
With innumerable 21st century distractions, it is unrealistic to think we can live stress free. So how is it we can enjoy perfect peace? Listen how Jesus speaks to a distracted Martha: “There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it [undivided attention to Jesus]” (Luke 10:41). What a timely, and timeless, reminder: “Fixing your eyes on Jesus” (Heb. 12:2) is the key to perfect peace.
Just last night when my thoughts were on the earthly level, immediately I remembered to look up unto Jesus, Hebrews 12:2. Lately it has been a constant reminder, it's a precious and effective course-corrective directive. Its effect it's seen immediately in our soul as we put it into practice.
ReplyDeleteYes, a good example of how His Spirit "quickens" us! He continually, immediately renews us, makes the moment 'new.' A wonderful reality in an otherwise stress-filled world! Thank you Patricia.
ReplyDeleteGood morning Greg,
ReplyDeleteI have learned that there are different kinds of personal peace. We tend to think of the word "perfect" the same way that we think about a number, as an absolute. Most of the time that the word "perfect" is used in scripture, the meaning is one of maturity and completeness and wholeness. A child may have peace, and it could be because the child does not have all of the facts, but trusts the one who does. In like manner, so should we. But if a new fact is introduced, the child's peace is destroyed. The child may jump with abandon from the bed to a father's arms; but if the child finds out that the father dropped the older sister, the child becomes nervous and jumps nervously, affecting the enjoyment of the jump. This is the reason for the need for a more mature peace. We are called to a deeper understanding of people, the world and of God. With that deeper understanding, it is possible to become more anxious. Yet, we are admonished to be anxious for nothing. Only a mature, whole peace that is cognizant of the facts and a faith in the One who has promised and delivered on those promises can assuage that kind of anxiousness. We can cast all of our cares upon Him, because He cares for us.
Godspeed!
Larry
Thanks Larry, The actual phrase in Hebrew is "Shalom, Shalom" the highest phrase for prosperity, wealth, wholeness, soundness, friendship, covenant relationship and, of course, peace-internal and external. It is 'everything' God intends for us.
ReplyDelete