On October 22, Sara posted an excerpt of My Utmost for His Highest, and I was drawn to this portion in particular:
There was nothing of the nature of impulsive or thoughtless action about our Lord, but only a calm strength that never got into a panic. Most of us develop our Christianity along the lines of our own nature, not along the lines of God’s nature. Impulsiveness is a trait of the natural life, and our Lord always ignores it, because it hinders the development of the life of a disciple.
I love that first line, that there was “nothing of the nature of impulsive or thoughtless action about our Lord, but only a calm strength that never got into a panic.”Calm strength.Never in a panic.That’s where we can turn, when a hint of panic rises in those of us affected by traits of the “natural life”: To the Lord.He offers steadying alternatives to the panic and impulsiveness of the natural life. For example, He offers wisdom to those who ask, and self-control and patience as fruits of the Spirit.In Philippians 4:5-7, Paul wrote:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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.
The truth of that passage is timeless, yet it seemed particularly timely as I thought about Tuesday.Peace.Calm strength.Never in a panic.Do not be anxious.I wasn’t able to recite as far as John 14:27 for the MMM Celebration, but I worked on it throughout the month. It came to mind, and I think it, too, is a good one for the next couple of days — reassuring words from our calm, strong, panic-free Lord:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
I needed this this morning, Ann, thanks!
Downsized out of my position this summer, able now to count how many days until our reserve hits $0, I’ve never been more aware of the need for calm strength (His). Peace (from on high). An UN-troubled heart. No panic (that’s mis-trust in overdrive, I think).
Thanks again –
Phil—
[Ps. 37.25]
*sigh*. YES.
*sigh*. YES.
*sigh*. YES.
*sigh*. YES.
*sigh*. YES.
*sigh*. YES.
*sigh*. YES.
*sigh*. YES.
*sigh*. YES.
Ann,
Thank you for sharing these words of The Lord’s Wisdom!
For me, honestly the difference of the wording, using some helps found in learnin’ some more from the Greek words being used, as well as the wording chosen in the KJV I have for Phil. 4: 7, helps me to think on what it says in a new way. Maybe it might encourage someone else ….
And the Peace of God, which (continually) passeth all understanding (mind, intellect), shall (assuredly) keep (be a watcher in advance, i.e., mount guard as a sentinel; fig., hem in, protect) your hearts (thoughts, feelings, mind) and minds (perception, i.e., purpose; or by implication, intellect, disposition) *through* Messiah Ye’shua (Christ Jesus).
Reading it this way can make a real difference of thinking, within me.
Hope it might encourage someone who is also inspired by what you shared, Ann.
The Lord bless you abundantly, as you continue to seek Him (His Face) diligently!
Kathy A. in n.e. TN
I love this. Thank you.