Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – July 22, 2019
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15
I have a medical issue. A few days ago what was a “routine procedure” became a nightmare of pain and uncertainty. I mention this not for pity (though certainly prayers), but because many reading these words are facing similar issues or know someone who suffers chronic discomfort and the emotional pain of not knowing how to solve the physical problem. Fortunately, I have access to excellent healthcare and many friends praying for divine intervention. But what if my condition doesn’t change? What if I have to adjust to a new normal with lifelong limitations?
God and His Word, and my loving wife have provided me strength and hope during these dark days. The words “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” has taken on a very real meaning. My will is learning to submit to Christ’s peace as the number one authority over my mind and emotions. I have to remind myself who is in charge of my life. The Lord Jesus Christ. Where He rules there is peace in my pain, peace in my fear of the future, and peace in taking one day at a time. Christ’s peace is all-inclusive. Like an all-inclusive resort, His peace provides all I need.
“As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you” (Isaiah 66:13).
Comfort and peace are like salt and pepper. They bring a savory taste to trusting in our heavenly Father for His comfort and learning to receive the comfort of loved ones. My precious wife of 40 years comforts me unceasingly and joyfully, with her comforting prayers, comfort food and comforting activities. We had a fierce “Phase 10” card game competition, neck and neck until the last hand, when she blew me away by 100 points! Last night we drove down by a local lake to watch the sunset and hear the children frolic and have fun. Comfort is heart medicine.
What are you facing that has robbed your joy? Do you have an emotional and/or physical pain that desperately requires peace in the middle of the storm? If so, pray and picture your loving Savior breathing His breath of peace in your face of faith, inhale His calming peace and exhale your fears and second guessing with “if only” or “what if'”. Next, let others know how to pray for you, receive their petitions as gifts of hope. Allow a friend or family member to comfort you, like a loving mom, receive the comfort she has received from Christ in her pain.
I vacillate between being afraid to being assured. I know in my head God is in control, but my heart sometimes hesitates, and wants to accelerate ahead to a solution or back to how things used to be. Feeling helpless and out of control is my opportunity for a deeper intimacy with my heavenly Father who loves me, my Savior who calms me and my helper, the Holy Spirit who comforts me. Also, I’m so grateful for the Body of Christ that hurts when another member of the Body hurts. There is an unseen joy and gratitude when I see Jesus with eyes of faith. He faced pain, not without vacillation, “not my will, but your will be done”, but with a vision of union with Love.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Update: My health issue has improved significantly, prognosis very good, thank you Jesus!
Prayer
Dear Lord, though I vacillate between fear and faith, I receive your peace and comfort, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Application
Who in the Body of Christ can I solicit to pray to comfort me in my pain?
Related Reading
Psalm 119:76; John 20:21-22; 2 Corinthians 1:3-7; Philippians 2:1
Post/Tweet today
In faith, seek deeper intimacy with your heavenly Father who loves you, your Savior who calms you and the Holy Spirit who comforts you. #peace #wisdomhunters #Jesus
Worship Resource
10-minute video- Darlene Zschech:
Donate
If you are blessed by these daily devotionals please prayerfully consider a donation to support Wisdom Hunters Resources. We are trusting the Lord for His provision.
Download our app!
