A Promised Outcome

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 (New King James Version)

Today’s verse is the “end of the story” if you will. It is the result of implementing the truths found before and after it. As I have read through Philippians 4 this morning I am seeing a conditional promise being made. The peace of God which keeps our heart and mind secure and safe comes as I stand fast in my relationship with Christ, walk in unity with others, rejoice in the Lord, am gentle toward everyone, pray with thankfulness rather than worry, and think (meditate) on what is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, good, virtuous, and praiseworthy. That is quite a list and that is quite a result! When any of those things are missing than I am not at peace and my heart and mind become vulnerable to the attacks of the world, the flesh, and the devil.

I have heard it said that reading a Proverb a day is beneficial and since there are 31 chapters will take you through the entire book of Proverbs in a month. It is a book filled with wise sayings and guidelines for living. The four epistles (Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians) are calling to me to do the same. To read a chapter a day and take in practical Christianity. To take hold of the commands and promises being given. To see what will result from walking in obedience to the truths of Scripture.

I have often noted the importance of guarding my thoughts. I know all too well the result of thinking on negative things such as lies and wrong perceptions. Unguarded thoughts can bring me down quicker than anything. They are like quicksand to my soul. I believe that my antidote to that is found in Scripture and in particular these Epistles. They are practical truths for daily living and God is inviting me to read them for myself and to apply them to my life.

Here is my plan for action! Highlight or underline the commands in one color and the promises or results in another color. I look forward to seeing not only a profound pattern to follow but the intense impact it is sure to have on my life as I do it. My personality is such that when I want to change an area in my life I can look for a person to give me a list of things to do that will result in the change I am wanting to make. God is inviting me to open His Word and see the list He has designed. To get the instructions straight from Him. It won’t be limited to just these Epistles but it will certainly start there! Anyone who wishes may join me!

Father, I know an adventure when I see one and I am seeing one right now! Thank you for Your invitation of “read, see, and do!” I anticipate the change that will come of it. Amen.

I Will Rise - Chris Tomlin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yvfso4Q8xg

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.