21 April 2005 Devotion for Today “Peace Beyond Understanding” Philippians 4:7
During the Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century, German pastor Paul Gerhardt and his family were forced to flee from their home. One night as they stayed in a small village inn, homeless and afraid, his wife broke down and cried openly in despair. To comfort her, Gerhardt reminded her of Scripture promises about God’s provision and keeping. Then, going out to the garden to be alone, he too broke down and wept. He felt he had come to his darkest hour. Soon afterward, Gerhardt felt the burden lifted and sensed anew the Lord’s presence. Taking his pen, he wrote a hymn that has brought comfort to many. "Give to the winds thy fears; hope, and be undismayed; God hears thy sighs and counts thy tears; God shall lift up thy head. Through waves and clouds and storms He gently clears the way. Wait thou His time, so shall the night soon end in joyous day."
“And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:7 What is meant by the "peace that passes under-standing?" Literally, it is that which is "above" our comprehension. God’s Peace Doesn’t Make Sense? Exactly! In the worst circumstances of life you can have the peace that doesn’t make sense. Jesus promised that His peace isn’t like anything else in the world. It will guard your heart, your mind, your life. And the world can’t take it away!
It is often in our darkest times that God makes His presence known most clearly. He uses our sufferings and troubles to show us that He is our only source of strength. And when we see this truth, like Pastor Gerhardt, we receive new hope. Are you facing a great trial? Take heart. Put yourself in God’s hands. Wait for His timing. He will give you a "song in the night."
Have a blessed day!
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