“The peace of God – will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:7 NKJ).
This verse calls to mind an armed sentinel standing by to prevent intrusion. Soldiers guard fortresses; sentries watch over premises. But here is peace which stands guard. Peace does not seem militant enough to do any “guarding,” yet it is God’s choice to protect our hearts and minds.
The Greek word translated peace here is eirene (i-ray’-nay). It includes the idea of Joining and reconciling forces or factors to produce quietness, harmony, and unity. Eirene says: “Be reconciled with God, and you will have rest and contentment. All division, disunity, distrust, and disruption will be removed when peace intervenes and takes over.”
The lexicographers tell us that eirene implies more than concord, harmony, or just getting along with one’s neighbor. Included in this word is the idea of security, safety, prosperity, and happiness. Your thoughts and affections can be in perfect harmony and you can enjoy total rest – all because of Jesus.
The verse adds the name of the Lord like a signature on a check. A check without a signature is worthless. Jesus gives validity to this promise by adding His name to it.
Peace not only guards heart and mind, but also reconciles both areas. Sometimes your heart will tell you one thing and your mind another. Pray for God’s peace to reconcile the divided factions and bring them together. Oh happy times when heart and mind are in one accord!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.