How To Have The Peace Of God

HOW TO HAVE THE PEACE OF GOD

Text: Philippians 4:4 – 8

Introduction:

· Peace of God different than peace with God

· Peace with God describes state between God and the Christian (Romans 5:1, 2)

· Peace of God describes condition within the Christian

· Based on presence, promise, and power of God

Body:

A. Rejoice no matter what happens (v. 4)

· Paul and Silas singing in prison

· Inner attitudes do not have to reflect outward circumstances

· Paul in prison while writing Philippians

· Philippians 1:12 – 14

· Trial? Find something to praise the Lord for.

B. Be gracious with others (v. 5)

· If mom ain’t happy, ain’t no one happy

· Don’t take it out on others

· Moderation = forbearance; overlooking the faults and failures of others

· Not a façade

· Live by golden rule and clean slate

C. Remember that Jesus is coming soon (v. 5)

· Troubles and trials only temporary

· This is the worst Christians will have it

· Philippians 1:21

· Jesus is also with us now

· Live one day at a time

D. Turn your worries into prayers (v. 6)

· Supplication – earnest pleading for personal needs

· Thanks for what He’s already done

· Thanks for what He will do (faith)

· 1 Peter 5:6, 7 – “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him: for he careth for you.”

· Every time you begin to worry, pray, and ask others to pray with you

E. Fill your mind with the things of God (v. 8)

· More than just thinking happy thoughts

· Intentional meditation on the presence, promises, and power of God

· Proverbs 23:7 – “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he”

· Troubles? Count your blessings, remember past victories, search God’s Word for applicable promises

Conclusion: (v. 7)

· God’s peace makes no sense to the world (John 14:27)

· Sometimes God allows bad things to happen to drive you to your knees and learn to trust Him

· Christian: What do you need to do to have the peace of God in your heart in the midst of the situation that you are facing?

· Unsaved: You need peace with God first.