DAYTONA

When most Christians think about the scripture where God commands us to put on the whole armor of God, they think about the sword of the spirit, the helmet of salvation, the shield of faith. Yet how many actually think about the weapon of peace? Do many remember that it's also a part of the armor? The scripture commands us to have our feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. (Eph 6:15). 

 

   But when considering weapons, how does peace actually function as a weapon? When many hear the word "peace", they think of the opposite of war. Yet God has given it to us as a tool for war. Philippians 4:7 indicates how it is used as a tool against the enemy: "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus." (NIV) This means it's used as a defensive weapon to block attacks against our hearts and minds, where spiritual battles often begin. 

 

   So how do we obtain this peace? Well, as we know, it is a fruit of the Spirit. It is something that can be developed in us by the Holy Spirit.  Also, the scriptures state that God will keep us in perfect peace if our minds are stayed on Him. Once it is produced in us, God maintains it through our commitment to remain focused on Him.

 

   As Jesus remained in a state of peace, he was able to attack the raging winds from the storm he and the disciples encountered while out to sea. Jesus had so much peace inside of him, that while the storm rocked the boat violently, he was asleep. When the disciples awakened Him, he attacked the storm by speaking peace, commanding everything to return to calm.

 

   Allow the fruit of peace to fully develop in you and allow God to help you maintain it by keeping your focus on Him so that, like Jesus, you aren't full of anxiety when storms come, but resting in the authority given by Christ to speak to these storms and command them to be still. Then the peace in you can become peace to those around you.