A peace-filled heart is valuable. Every day, people of all stripes seek a heart that is calm, peaceful, tranquil, and at rest. Many avenues and vices are explored in search of inner peace. Everything from eastern meditation to drugs and alcohol is used with mixed success. And while the search for inner peace often leads folks in the wrong direction, the goal is affirmed in the proverb, “A tranquil heart is life to the body, but jealousy is rottenness to the bones.” (Proverbs 14:30, CSB)
A soul at peace is life to the body. Scientists have long observed how stress, the opposite of peace, harms our physical bodies. A quick search finds that chronic stress can cause heart disease, high blood pressure, fatigue, headaches, weakened immunity, digestive issues (ibs/ulcers), anxiety, depression, and memory issues.
The proverb also identifies Jealousy as one of the opposites of peace. Jealousy will eat at us until it is satisfied or we find contentment somewhere else. It is the root of much stress in our lives. But jealousy is a liar that promises peace if only we obtain something we don’t have.
How do we find inner peace? How do we experience a tranquil heart? As stated above, people try many things. Some even work for a while. But there is only one source of true peace, calm, and rest.
Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28–30, CSB) And “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your heart be troubled or fearful.” (John 14:27, CSB) Also, “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.” (John 16:33, CSB)
Paul advises, “Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6–7, CSB) And, “And let the peace of Christ, to which you were also called in one body, rule your hearts. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15, CSB)
Jesus is our peace. There is nothing in this world that compares to the peace that Jesus gives those who have a new life in Him. Many things will try to steal that peace from us. Envy, jealousy, and other desires tempt us with lies of a greater or more fulfilling peace. That desire is the root of many sins. But we already have the answer; it is up to us to remain in the peace He has graciously and lavishly given.
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