THE VALUABLE GIFT OF PEACE IS AVAILABLE FOR THOSE WHO BELIEVE

BIBLE PASSAGE:
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members 
of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 
(Colossians 3:15)

MEDITATION:
Many people have the wrong concept that becoming a Christian 
results in changes that will kill their enjoyment of living.
This a lie from Satan designed to discourage people from
surrendering their lives to the Lord and distracting them 
from making a choice that will affect their eternity.

The scriptures tell us that when we allow Christ to rule in our hearts,
we receive a commodity than many seek but seldom find – peace.
In fact, we are ‘called to peace’.
Think about that phrase for a moment.

When God is calling us to receive His salvation, He is also
calling us to enjoy a peace like we have never experienced before.
When we realize the magnitude of this newfound peace, 
we are reminded to be thankful for this blessing from the Lord.

Did you notice the other benefit subtlety mentioned in the scriptures?
We not only receive peace, 
but we also gain a feeling of ‘belonging’ to a family.
We become ‘members of one body’.

As members of one body, we are instructed to participate 
in encouraging the other members of our new ‘family of believers’. 
The scriptures indicate that our hearts will have such a gratitude for God’s 
gift of salvation that we will want to sing songs of praise and gratitude to Him. 
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish 
one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, 
singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. (Colossians 3:16)

Our new life in Christ gives us a new purpose which contributes to our peace.
Instead of doing everything focused on pleasing ourselves, our words and deeds 
become ‘flavored’ with increasing our relationship with the Lord Jesus.
And as we do, we remember the great sacrifice Jesus made for us 
and it inspires us to give thanks to God for the love Jesus showed for us.
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the 
Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:17)

ACTION:
Rather than allowing Satan to deceive you into avoiding the Lord, 
choose to embrace His gift of salvation so you can receive the promise of 
peace and enjoy being thankful for belonging to God’s family of believers.

Pray,
“Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise of peace to all who 
choose to allow Christ to rule in their hearts and lives. Help me to
surrender any part of my life that I am still holding on to which 
prevents me from fully enjoying Your gift of peace. Remind me 
of Your love and blessings so I will be thankful and sing praises 
to You and Your Son, Jesus.”

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