“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” Philippians 4:7
How do we achieve the peace that God promised: the peace that surpasses all understanding?
In a world seemingly consumed by chaos and uncertainty, the yearning for peace resonates deeply within each of us. We chase fleeting moments of calm and seek solace in temporary distractions, but true and lasting peace remains elusive for so many. But what if the key to unlocking this profound tranquility lies not in external circumstances, but within us, nurtured by the unwavering power of faith?
The Bible speaks of “the peace that surpasses all understanding,” a divine gift that transcends our human comprehension. This isn’t merely the absence of conflict; it’s a deep-seated, unwavering calm that guards our hearts and minds, even amidst life’s inevitable storms. How do we attain this extraordinary peace? The answer, I believe, is through faith.
Faith is the foundation of harmony
Faith, in its purest form, is the foundation upon which we build our relationship with God. It’s the bridge that joins us with our Creator, removing the barriers of sin and slowing us to experience a harmonious connection with one another and the Divine. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we gain access to this extraordinary peace, a peace that is not dictated by our circumstances but rather anchors us in the midst of them.
Consider again, the words of Philippians 4:7: “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God and God’s son, Christ Jesus.” I often speak these words, as the final words at the end of the Eucharist, as I offer a blessing to the people before they are dismissed to “go in peace, to love and serve the Lord,” they respond with “thanks be to God!” This is not just a comforting verse in Holy Scriptures; it’s a promise. A promise that when we place our trust in God, when we surrender our anxieties through prayer and petition, replacing worry with unwavering belief, we open ourselves to receive God’s endless peace.
Furthermore, faith cultivates virtues that naturally lead to harmony, not just within us, but within our communities. It promotes compassion, love, and service, values that unite people across religious lines and foster cooperation. Faith encourages dialogue, breaks down misconceptions, and builds bridges of solidarity. It motivates us to engage with others and work together towards common goals and strengthens the very fabric of our society. I think specifically about the faith communities here in Augusta and the CSRA, where the Progressive Religious Coalition (PRC) coordinates an annual Interfaith service to commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It is no coincidence that we work well together, because we share a common faith.
In an increasingly pluralistic world, faith can be a powerful force for unity. By fostering understanding, respect, and cooperation, it creates inclusive communities where diversity is celebrated, not feared. It offers tools for conflict resolution, empowering individuals and communities to address disputes constructively and maintain harmony.
Ultimately, faith offers an eternal perspective, assuring us of ultimate peace in God’s presence. This hope provides comfort and stability, allowing us to navigate temporary earthly troubles with a sense of purpose and unwavering belief.
The “peace that surpasses all understanding” refers to a feeling of inner calm and tranquility that comes from God and is greater than human comprehension. For Christians, it is a peace that is found in a relationship with Jesus Christ. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
So, as we navigate the complexities of life today, let us remember the transformative power of faith. Let us embrace it as the foundation for a tranquil life, a source of inner peace that transcends all our understanding, and may it be a catalyst for harmony within us and our communities. It is through faith that we can truly find the peace we so desperately seek, a peace that is not of this world, but a gift from God.
Rev. Bill Alford is a retired priest who served St. Alban’s Episcopal Church for the last 30 years and who has been priest-in-charge of the Church of the Atonement in Hephzibah for the last three years. Originally from Albany, Ga., Rev. Alford is a Navy Veteran who sings with and who is on the Board of Directors for the Augusta Choral Society.
