April 1, 1999, Thursday

Why do some miss out on what God's best intention is for

them? What benefit is it to an individual that is resolute

and steadfast in his faith in God? What mind set is most

valuable to an individual?

Jesus spoke to those around Him that did not believe in

His purpose or power. His desire was blessing for them-

"If you had known, even you, especially in your lifetime,

the things that make for your peace! But today they are

hidden from your eyes" (Luke 19:42). Unbelief is the only

sin that Jesus can't forgive. Those that refuse the free

salvation and blessing that He offers, will not have any

lasting peace.

Isaiah spoke to God gratefully of His promise to keep His

faithful ones from losing their peace, joy, or security--

"The steadfast of mind You Lord will keep in perfect peace,

Because he trusts in You" (Isa 26:3). Even though Christ

was in severe stress and suffering from anxiety before His

death, His mind was resolute and steadfast in the task that

lay before Him. He was at peace and secure in the fact that

God is faithful. When the time to give His life came, He

was ready for the task.

Paul explained the contrast of a person's mind that is

ruled by its carnal desire and a person ruled by God--

"For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind

set on the Spirit is life and peace" (Rom 8:6). Those

that put Christ to death on the cross were ruled simply

by what was expedient and convenient. Those that trust

in that voluntary, sacrificial death of Jesus on the

cross as payment for their sin debt, will be ruled by

the Spirit and find eternal life and everlasting peace!

Let us remember Who is the God that is our peace. God's

Name is Jehová Shalom. He is the God that puts His peace

all around His people. He is the God that is helping us

learn His ways. He is meek and humble and makes us aware

that the fear of the Lord gives protection. He will soon

crush Satan under our feet and instructs us from all of

His teaching. Lift your hands to Him and Praise Him today

for the fact that He keeps us with in His peace!