Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Walking in Peace

And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. Ephesians 6:15

The preparation of the gospel of peace signifies a prepared and resolved frame of heart, to adhere to the gospel and abide by it, which will enable us to walk with a steady pace in the way of religion, not withstanding the difficulties and dangers that may be in it. It is styled the gospel of peace because it brings all sorts of peace, peace with God, with ourselves, and with one another.

It may also be meant of that which prepares for the entertainment of the gospel namely, repentance. With this our feet must be shod, for by living a life of repentance we are armed against temptations to sin, and the designs of our great enemy. (Matthew Henry)

That you may be ready for the combat, be shod with the gospel of peace, endeavour after that peaceable and quiet mind which the gospel calls for. Be not easily provoked nor prone to quarrel: but show all gentleness and all long-suffering to all men, and this will certainly preserve you from many great temptations and persecutions. (Dr. Whitby)

I like that phrase, a prepared and resolved frame of heart. This is our purpose-the reason for life itself on earth. To get up every morning and resolve to put the Lord first and follow His lead. I don't know about you, but to acquire peace of mind and heart would be worth the walk in and of itself.

3 comments:

Lori Lynn said...

I guess I've always been overly critical of myself, though I know I shouldn't be. Thanks for the comment. :-)

Great post too, by the way.

Retta said...

Peace. The illusive peace... I once did a study where I looked up every verse about peace, and tried to understand.

I don't think I got anywhere, not really. Intellectually yes, but in my heart... I still have times where peace is... just out of reach. Like a lovely scented flower... I can see it, smell it, appreciate it. Yet only *sometimes* can I actually hold it for myself.

I really appreciate the times when I feel God's peace, I guess because I don't always. And I know it's not His fault. He promised it!
Thank you for a thought provoking post.

I guess I need to to better at keeping my mind "stayed" on Him, with trust. He promises to keep me in peace if I do that...

Loretta
=^..^=

kathryn said...

Definitely! I'd love to feel that kind of acceptance and peace...