Christ: The Treasure of Our HeartsSample

As we approach the Christmas season, it is common for people to begin asking one another, “What do you want for Christmas?” While the answer varies from person to person, I speak for many people by saying, “Peace! I want peace in the world.” This is a reasonable request in light of the recent turmoil in the Middle East, particularly involving the nation of Israel. Instances of division, dissension, and violence that abound in our own nation and cities only serve to reinforce our desire for peace.

In Isaiah chapter 26, the prophet Isaiah presents a song that will be sung in the land of Judah, which speaks of a strong city that the faithful will enter in the future. Those who will dwell in it are described in the following way, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you” (Isa 26:3, ESV). This promise is especially relevant in light of the preceding warnings of terrifying judgments that will come against the nations of the earth (ch. 13-25). Yet, amid such warnings, Isaiah reminds his readers that those whose minds stayed on the Lord will be kept in “perfect peace.” The Shalom (שָׁלוֹם) spoken of here involves a soundness and tranquility of heart and mind that is the result of being in right standing with God. Notice, it is the Lord who keeps the inhabitants of the city in this peace “because” they “trust” in him.” He is the One who will “swallow up death forever” and “wipe away” every tear (25:8).

The connection between trusting in the Lord and the peace that He provides is also presented in the book of Romans, where Paul writes, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom 5:1). Faith involves trusting in Christ. Faith unites us to His saving work, which, in turn, results in God forgiving our sins and declaring us to be righteous in His sight. In the final analysis, being in right standing with God results in us having peace (εἰρήνη) with Him.

Although we live “in” this world, our true home is found “in Christ,” the source of life and peace. Amid the restlessness and anxieties of this world, I want to encourage you to keep your mind “stayed” on the Lord Jesus Christ, the prince of peace, and His promises that will never fail.

Prayer

Father, we come before you in the name of your Son, Jesus, and thank you for the peace you provide through Him. Although there is great turmoil around us, we are grateful for your peace within us as we keep our eyes fixed on you. Lord, we pray for this peace to be extended to and experienced by the nations of the world that rage against you. As you have captured our hearts, we ask that you would capture theirs. We pray that you would open theirs as you have opened our eyes. As you have reconciled us, we pray that you would reconcile them. We pray for the peace of Jerusalem and the entire Middle East region. We pray that all will come to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ and that by doing so, experience peace with you and with one another. We pray for peace that surpasses all understanding and guides our hearts and minds this holiday season. May your glory cover the earth as the water covers the sea, and may all nations bow before you, King Jesus. In Jesus’ name, amen!

Scott Adams, Ph.D., D.Min. serves as a part-time assistant professor for the Regent University School of Divinity.