Do we promote peace?
TODAY’S PROVERB: Deceit is in the heart of those who plot evil, but those promoting shalom have joy. Proverbs 12:20, TLV
When we promote peace by living out our Heavenly Father’s word, most times, the last thing that happens around us is joy. The truth will always pierce through lies — even when delivered lovingly. Those in darkness don’t always run toward the light. And those souls will generally not exhibit joy toward us.
“Do not think that I came to bring shalom on the earth; I did not come to bring shalom, but a sword.
For I have come to set ‘a man against his father,
JESUS, MATTHEW 10:34-36, TLV [VERSE 36 TAKEN FROM MICAH 7:6]
a daughter against her mother, and
a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law;
and a man’s enemies will be the members of his household.’”
So where does the peace and joy come in? In us. Things don’t have to be perfect around us for us to have peace and joy. We must choose to walk in those attributes. But, it’s there for us because it is our gift when we choose to follow Jesus.
And the shalom of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Messiah Yeshua. [Jesus]PHILIPPIANS 4:7, TLV
You keep in perfect peace one whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.
ISAIAH 26:3, TLV
If we’re in a situation where we don’t feel that peace or joy, it might be wise to take a few moments to remember. Remember all that our Father has done for us. Remember all that Jesus did for us. Remember the blessings we’ve already received. Then thank Him. That gratitude muscle might need a little strengthening — which will also strengthen our faith.
When shalom and joy permeate our heart, mind, and way of life, it shows. When we recognize that we are empowered by the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead (Romans 8:11), things will happen.
And, when those things begin to happen, be ready. Because our Father loves taking the humble and using them mightily.
May God’s shalom and joy shine brightly through us, my friends.
Proverbs 12:20 Tree of Life Version – TLV, #tlvbible, #tlvproverbs
