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Galatians 5:22 tells us that one of the fruits of the Spirit is peace. Peace is usually defined simply as the absence of war or other hostilities. The problem with this definition is that it suggests that unless you have external peace, you cannot have internal peace.
In reality though, there are many instances throughout our lives when, although war and hostility are not present on the outside, internally, there is just no peace. I have the privilege of coaching a number of families in that area of business. Experience has taught me that just because there is little or no external evidence of conflict or hostility, this does not automatically mean that there is peace. Often, the relationships that seem to have the least conflicts are actually the ones with the most dysfunction. This is also the case with businesses.
Business environments where there are no obvious or visible conflicts and confrontations are often dysfunctional. The healthy ones have learned to disagree without being disagreeable, to have conflict without being personal, and to confront without being offensive.
Also, businesses that do not face external pressure or problems often are not growing, because they are operating well within their zone of comfort. Growing businesses understand how to face trouble and importantly, how to maintain their peace in the midst of the external and internal challenges that will inevitably accompany their growth.
What is true peace? Peace is not the absence of trouble or conflict, but an inner tranquility and poise that is guided by a complete trust in the sovereignty of God. Jesus said it clearly in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
The peace that Jesus is talking about is not a peace that is conditional on environmental circumstances, or on what others may or may not do. He is speaking about a deep, immovable peace that is solely based upon a relationship with Him, and upon a complete trust in His promises. Jesus said it is “not as the world gives” - in other words, it is lasting and unconditional, regardless of any circumstance - once we have settled the matter of His complete lordship over our lives.
In Philippians 4:4-8, the Apostle Paul, while writing from prison, gives us the guidelines to obtain this peace. He calls it “the peace of God that passes all understanding”, which is a peace that exists no matter what is going on around you. And for this reason, it is indeed a peace that our natural minds cannot comprehend. This peace exists in the midst of cash flow shortages, marketplace challenges, or even personal and family challenges. It is a peace that does not make sense - yet, it is more real than the most challenging of circumstances that we may be facing.
How can we obtain this peace when it comes to our relationships and our business?
· Rejoice in the LORD – When faced with trouble, get excited; it is an opportunity for growth or advancement.
· Don’t worry – Worrying will not fix the problem, nor will it add any value to the situation, but will set you back instead. So, refrain from being overly concerned about the situation.
· Pray – Speak to God about your concerns, and listen to what He has to say.
· Give thanks – Share with God how grateful you are for how He has always come through for you. Show gratitude for who God is in your life.
· Share your concerns with God – Share your specific concerns with God,
and be as specific as you can about your requests.
If we can do this, the Word of God promises that “the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)
The great thing about the peace of God is that it has wonderful benefits. Trouble and conflict can easily cause mental and emotional instability. But the peace of God serves as a powerful and very effective spiritual shield to protect our hearts and minds against mental breakdown, heart attacks, or depression. This peace, as stated in a popular Gospel song, is a peace that the world did not give us, and the world cannot take it away.
My prayer for you today is that God would grant you His peace that passes all understanding to protect your heart and mind in your current and future circumstances.
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