Let peace rule...

by Elizabeth Stewart

LET -allow to, permit to, give permission to, give leave to, authorize to, sanction to, grant the right to, license to, empower to, enable to- the peace and soul harmony which comes from Christ rule continually in your heart.

I don't know anyone who doesn't want more peace within. God wants us to allow His peace to rule in our mind and hearts. He wants His peace to be allowed to act as an umpire within us. In other words, He wants His peace to be allowed to call the balls and strikes in our thoughts and the desires and affections of our heart. But the big question is...

HOW? 
Thankfully, God shows us the how in the verses preceding and following His instruction to let His peace rule in us.

Keep your focus on things above not on things of earth. Colossians 3:2
When our thoughts are consumed with our circumstances and problems we are filled with turmoil instead of peace. When we shift our focus onto God Who is ruling and reigning on the throne of heaven and over all creation, we begin to trust that He is well able to handle everything that concerns us and we begin to experience His peace.

Let go of shame and guilt. Colossians 3:3
When we live in fear, guilt and shame it's impossible to live in peace. Colossians 3:3 tells us that our life is hidden in Christ. When you receive Christ as the Ruler and Savior of your life, He takes your sinfulness and wraps you up in His righteousness. Guilt and shame are no longer your portion, peace is!

Deal with sin. Colossians 3:6
Living in deliberate disobedience to God's word and ways is a peace killer. Soul harmony comes when we live a life of repentance and submission to God-when we trust that His ways are best for us.

Let go of offenses, anger and bitterness. Forgive. Colossians 3:8 and 13
Offense, anger, bitterness and unforgiveness are like poison to your inner being. It is impossible for these things and peace to coexist. Choose to forgive and to let go of anger and offense and bitterness. When negative emotions and thoughts pop back up, as they inevitably will, say aloud to remind yourself and the enemy of your soul, "I chose to forgive that." Then consistently pray for God to heal your wounded emotions. There's also no shame in seeking good biblical counsel if you need some extra help and support.

Be honest. Colossians 3:9
You've heard the saying, "Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive." Being honest and transparent and real is one of the keys to peace and freedom.

Cooperate with God in the renewal of your mind. Colossians 3:10
As we yield and cooperate with God's Spirit and Word, our mind is continually being renewed and transformed. Staying stuck in old ways of thinking, reacting and responding definitely hinders peace. Letting God's Word wash our mind and His Spirit transform our old mindsets is liberating!

Let go of prejudice. Colossians 3:11
Isn't it amazing that God sees prejudice as a peace stealer? God wants us to see everyone through His eyes. That doesn't always come naturally or easy, but it's something that we can ask for His help to do.

Realize how beloved you are by God and let His love flow through you to others. Colossians 3:12
When we realize that we are God's chosen and beloved one, then it's easier to love others, and to be tenderhearted, merciful, gentle and kind to them. When we are confident in God's love, peace can fill our hearts which enables peace to impact our relationships.

Let God's Word dwell richly in your heart and mind. Colossians 3:15
The Word of God is the tool God uses to transform us. The more His Word fills up our mind and heart, the more it crowds out all of the negative thoughts and emotions that prevent peace from ruling within.

I want to live a life ruled by God's peace. How about you?

still following, 

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