A Devotional Reflection from Philippians 4:4–7
Based on the Berean Standard Bible and other Scriptures
“And the peace of God, which surpasses
all understanding, will guard your hearts
and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
— Philippians 4:7, BSB
Rejoice, Because the Lord Is Near
The apostle Paul tells us plainly: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4, NIV). This isn’t just a cheer-up command. It’s rooted in a rich truth—“The Lord is near” (v. 5). His nearness means His care is constant, His grace sufficient, and His peace available right now.
The Path from Anxiety to Peace
We’re told, “Do not be anxious about anything” (v. 6). That seems impossible—until we see the invitation that follows: “in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” God invites us to trade anxiety for peace by placing everything in His hands. The result? A peace that passes understanding—a peace that guards.
Christ Is Our Peace
This peace is more than a gift from Jesus; it is Jesus Himself.
“For He Himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14, NIV). If we belong to Christ, then we already possess peace, because we have Him.
A wise Christian once said, “If you have Jesus, you have peace.” That’s not wishful thinking—it’s the promise of Scripture. “Grace and peace to you… in Christ” (Ephesians 1:2-3, NIV). To be in Him is to be safe, complete, and covered with peace.
A Lasting, Unchanging Peace
Jesus promised, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives” (John 14:27, NIV). The world’s peace fades. Christ’s peace endures, because He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8, NIV).
Everything else may fall away—“but my words will never pass away,” Jesus said (Matthew 24:35, NIV).
Peace That Comes from Trust
Isaiah tells us, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You” (Isaiah 26:3, NIV). Trust is the soil where peace grows. To be steadfast in heart is not to be unshaken by life, but to be unwavering in trust.
And because we are “complete in Christ” (Colossians 2:10, NIV), we can rest in a peace that is full, not partial—a peace that doesn’t waver based on mood, news, or health.
The Spirit’s Work in Us
Peace is also a fruit of the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives.
“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22-23, NIV).
This fruit grows as we abide in Christ, surrendering our anxious thoughts, praying with thanksgiving, and letting the Spirit bring calm to our hearts. The result? A life that is steady and joyful—even amid life’s waves.
Peace Purchased at the Cross
We cannot “make peace with God” through our own efforts. But thanks be to God—He has made peace with us, through the blood of His Son.
“For God was pleased… to reconcile to Himself all things… by making peace through His blood, shed on the cross” (Colossians 1:19-20, NIV).
This is the foundation of peace: not our feelings or performance, but Christ’s finished work. Peace is not a negotiation; it is a gift, paid in full.
Final Word: Let Christ Guard You
Peace does not mean the absence of storms, but the presence of Christ in the storm. When Jesus guards the heart and mind, fear loses its grip.
So walk with Him. Rest in Him. Pray with thanksgiving, and let His peace stand guard—stronger than anxiety, deeper than emotion, and anchored in heaven.
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
— Romans 15:13, NIV
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