Peace Is the Answer

Let's explore Philippians 4:7 and the "Heartfull" story.

Philippians 4:7

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

NIV

• Is this the answer to how we guard our hearts?

• Paul is writing this letter to the believers in Philippi, while under house arrest in Rome. Because the believers had disagreements, he was encouraging them to pray for peace. Do you think Paul wanted them to not have disagreements or wanted them to seek peace within disagreements?

• What happens to our heart when we are challenged and pray for peace?

• How do you normally seek peace?

• Do you believe that God's peace is supernaturally different from the world's recommendation for peace?

• Have you ever felt a peace from God that transcended time, distance, or circumstances?

• If God was speaking directly to you in this verse, what is He saying to you and why?

Story: Peace Is the Answer

My Grandma was a recent widow with thirteen children when she received a dreaded telegram during WWII. My Uncle Edsel, the oldest, was wounded and paralyzed in battle, and at a hospital in California. Grandma had never traveled before, but she took a train across the country to be by his bedside. Paraplegics had a poor success rate back then. She found a job as a night shift cook in a restaurant across from the hospital in order to pay for her hotel. Grandma left twelve children behind , with the older children taking care of the little ones. My dad had quit school to work full-time to support the family. Looking back, it would seem like a tortuous decision for her to make, to leave twelve to save one, but you would have to understand my Grandma's prayer life. Praying was like breathing to her, spontaneous. I believe she was given immediate peace after she prayed on this decision. It took a year for Grandma and a healthy Uncle Edsel to return home. The whole family was thrilled.