Inventory of Peace

Kara Lassen Oliver

Read Philippians 4:4-7.

Read again Philippians 4:4-7. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

What images and impressions does the word peace create for you? The word peace has rich biblical connotations of reconciliation, wholeness, health, and unity. The apostle Paul often greets fellow Christians with the words grace and peace (see Rom. 1:7; 1 Cor. 1:3; Gal. 1:3).

Read and ponder these words of scripture. Based on the two column headings below, create your Inventory of Peace using a blank piece of paper.

In the left column, list some of the things that rob you of peace. In the right column note what gives you a sense of peace. Which column reflects the condition you find yourself in most often? How might this scripture passage guide you into greater peace?

Adapted from Meeting the Messiah: Scriptures for the Advent Season by Kara Lassen Oliver. Copyright © 2010 by the Upper Room Books. Used with permission.