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guarded by God's peace // Tuesday E-Devotion

Philippians 4:6-7 (nlt) --- Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

I need to hear that today. How about you? Some days or weeks are a little trying. Whether it is a person that pushes your buttons, a situation you cannot control or some type of problem, remember that God is still in control.

The first time I received that promise was the winter of 1993, and it was sweet. God spoke to my heart through the Spirit and the Bible bringing huge peace, comfort and strength at a time when I needed direction. Since that time these two verses have flooded my mind, been mentioned in hundreds of conversations and counseling sessions and let me to know my God that much better.

In my Christian DNA is this passage. God desires for us to have and hold His best which includes His peace and His presence. I need that.

Laying in bed one evening at a camp near Rincon, Georgia I had a conversation with a great Christian man that let me hear from God about dealing with stress, struggle and needing strength. My dad's mom was in critical condition that week (16 years ago). I was in a place I'd never been before and seeking God in big ways. God shows up at those times. I need that, and I was then guarded by His peace.

As I was traveling back and forth to seminary, again in the early 90's, a friend gave me a simple book that taught me more about waiting on God which brought even more peace.

Psalm 27:14 (nlt) --- Wait patiently for the Lord.Be brave and courageous.Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.

Psalm 37:7 (nlt) ---Be still in the presence of the Lord,and wait patiently for him to act.Don't worry about evil people who prosperor fret about their wicked schemes.

Psalm 31:14 (nlt) --- But I am trusting you, O Lord,saying, "You are my God!"

Ephesians 2:14 (nlt) --- For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us.

Living with God's peace guarding our hearts and minds is a big deal. I need that. How about you?

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