How can Paul pack so much into one short verse? From my devotions today in II Thessalonians 3:16: “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”
The true nature of peace...
1.It’s FROM: the Lord of Peace
*Not from any other source or it won’t last; won’t be deep enough; won’t be REAL. Peace from him is originated from the Rock
2.WHEN it APPLIES: At ALL Times
*YESTERDAY – Are you fretting about past mistakes? Worrying about decisions you’ve made? Picture putting it all in his palm, letting it go
*TODAY – Whatever you’re facing today, he has gone before you.
*TOMORROW – And whatever the future brings, he will be right by your side.
3.HOW it APPLIES: In EVERY Way
*Are you traveling? in transition? feeling insecure? alone? Are you grieving? He’s there. In every way possible.
Ultimately, peace is a decision of my will to trust him. It’s always an inward process and work, never based on the outward, the tangible, the stuff of life–what our senses touch and see and hear.
The irony?
His peace is more REAL than anything we have or ever will face in this world.
And that is the true nature of peace.
(I’m slowly working my way through the “building blocks” of the gospel. Look for my other blog on “The Logic of Grace.”)