Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful.
John 14:27 
American Standard Version

The peace that surpasses understanding is a Godly gift that cannot be fully comprehensible by our finite minds. We can, however, through faith and effort, begin to unravel its mystery for the benefit of our lives.

What is the nature of this peace? It is to guard our hearts and minds in Christ (Philippians 4:7). Interpreted, this means it is a peace “to protect the mind from external corrupting influences and to keep the mind focused on God’s truth.” (NKJV Study Bible) 

What are these corrupting influences? There are many. Among them are fear, anxiety, devious lies and false truths. All these and more can stop us in our tracks, causing us to wave the white flag of surrender to self-doubt and despair. In situations such as these, is it easy and very human to believe that God’s Peace is not intended for us or is beyond our ability to secure and enjoy. 

But this is not true. 

The redemption that God covenanted to His people (“He provided redemption for his people; he ordained his covenant forever—holy and awesome is his name” Psalm 111:9) is our promise of His Peace. It is given for eternity and is not secured by our efforts but by our faith, our belief, our trust. 

How does this work out in real life when we are on the brink of despair? 

We must act. While God’s Peace is freely available, is requires some effort on our part, and this may be the part that is hard to understand and even more difficult to implement. We must, if only for a moment, center on God’s gifts and blessings through prayer. Here are five prayers to focus on*:

  1. Rejoice in the Lord and change your emotional perspective.
  2. Dwell on Christ’s presence in your life, not on life’s troubles.
  3. Share your utter frustrations and ask God for His battle plan.
  4. Declare your adoration for the Lord by expressing your gratitude for His gifts, blessings, mercy, and grace.
  5. Ask the Lord for understanding in your trials and for guidance in your response.

There is power in action and in God’s power in actions taken with Him. Gird yourself in this power and His protective Peace.

*Read 5 Prayers for God to Move the Mountains of Anxiety in Your Life by Tina Yeager here. Her article contains many Scripture references to assist you in your understanding of God’s Peace.