Isaiah 26
ScriptureIsaiah 26:3You keep him in perfect peacewhose mind is stayed on you,because he trusts in you.Observation - What does it say?Isaiah is prophesying about a declaration the people who live in the land of Judah will make. From experience they will say that it is possible to experience perfect peace. It comes from God, to those whose thoughts are fixed on him, because they trust him.Understanding - What does it mean?According to the YouVersion Bible app (used by millions of people all around the world), the most highlighted verse in all of the Bible is Philippians 4:7-8:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.It gives insight into one of the most common struggles of mankind: anxiety and the desire to experience peace. According to this scripture in Isaiah, along with the rest of scripture, perfect peace is available!God grants perfect peace to the person who fixes their thoughts on him, because they trust in him.
When you think about it, any lack of peace is really a result of a lack of trust. In other words, if you are worried or anxious it's because you aren't trusting in God. If we truly trust that God loves us, that he is for us, and that he will care for us in every way, there is no reason for anxiety whatsoever!
Peter experienced peace and stayed walking on top of the water as long as his eyes were fixed on Jesus. Worry and sinking came as his eyes drifted from Jesus to the wind and waves.
Life ApplicationFix my thoughts on Jesus and trust in him!God, I look to you today. I thank you that you not only grant us temporary peace, but you keep us in the place of perfect peace as we keep our thoughts on you and trust in you. You’re so good! Forgive me for the times I doubt and begin to worry. Help us to trust you more and teach us to keep thoughts of you on the front of our minds all the time. Amen.