Ruling Peace

But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.
Colossians 3:14-15 NKJV

In the third chapter of Colossians, we're given a to-do list of what to develop after beginning a new life in Christ. And in verse 14, love is to be above all these things - the bond of perfection - bringing all the previously listed virtues into harmony so that we may be spiritually mature. 

That's good stuff right there, but what I'd like to focus on for a moment is let the peace of God rule in your hearts... It's not just saying 'have peace' or 'walk in peace'. It's not a suggestion, it's a Godly principle with purpose. Our hearts are where we have the most conflict, would you agree? Love and jealousy, trust and mistrust, hopes and fears, just to name a few. 

The translation for this word 'rule' is a verb in the context of umpiring or refereeing. Everyone knows that the umpire or the referee has the final rule on a play. It is that kind of rule that peace is supposed to have in our hearts. That peace calls 'foul' or 'safe'. That peace decides whether to trust or not.  That peace determines we can hope once again...

Does peace have that kind of rule in your heart? If not, check your heart; have you put on love above all else? Peace does not come without love.

Prayer:

Father, 

          We offer our gratitude to You for the gifts You have given us and praise You for all that You are - Redeemer, Healer, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, just to name a few. Teach us how to let Your peace have absolute rule in our hearts as we walk this walk of love with You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen