The 20 Verses You Love Most: #14 Perfect Peace

The 20 Verses You Love Most | Liz Curtis Higgs

It’s been a hard week in Oklahoma. Tornadoes have claimed too many loved ones, demolished too many homes, torn apart too many lives. If ever we needed an encouraging word, it’s this week.

So, when I opened my Bible to your fourteenth favorite verse, I looked at the page with a lump firmly lodged in my throat.

Of course, Lord. You always know exactly what we need.

Bible Open to Isaiah 26

You will keep in perfect peace
   those whose minds are steadfast,
   because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3

We don’t know the tune, but these are lyrics to a song, since this chapter of Isaiah begins, “In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah.”

When is “that day”? The impending day of judgment on the earth. Oh my.

A terrible day for those who’ve turned their backs on God.
A glorious day for those who’ve put their trust in God.

Beloved, that day is going to come as surely, swiftly, and with far more destructive force than any tornado. But for God’s people, he promises peace in the eye of the storm. And he calls us to sing a song of praise simply because he is worthy of it.

Just sixteen words in this verse, but every one packed with hope. Every word.
I’ll try not to wear you out with this, but seriously, every word matters. Look.

Every Word Matters

You… Isaiah 26:3

This is “the Lord” (CEV). He is only One who can make the promise that’s about to unfold.

If we look for lasting peace elsewhere, we won’t find it. If we think any government in the world can provide it, we are fooling ourselves.

Only God. Only, only God.

…will… Isaiah 26:3

Not maybe, not probably, not shoulda, woulda, coulda. He will.

In fact, he “dost” (RSV). It’s a promise that’s already been fulfilled in him and by him. “I know that everything God does will endure forever” (Ecclesiastes 3:14). “Forever” means eternity in both directions. All the way back and all the way forward. Beyond the parameters of time as we know it.

This is the kind of promise Eternal God has made to his people. I will.

Unfortunately, I make—and break—a dozen promises a day. “I’ll be right there.” “I’m almost done.” “I’ll get back to you soon.”

I mean well. But I don’t always deliver. Soon becomes two hours later, two days later. Almost done is worthless until you reach done.

When God says he will, he will. Such a deep comfort in knowing this to be true.

Wedding Ring

…keep… Isaiah 26:3

How I love being a kept woman when God is the One doing the keeping! He will “give” (NIRV) and “guard” (AMP), he will “preserve” (CJB) and “protect” (GW).

To keep something of great value, we put it in the safest of places. Like a wedding band, circling a ring finger: close, personal, never out of sight.

This is what God does to keep us: “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands” (Isaiah 49:16). Right here. Touch. See.

…in… Isaiah 26:3

I know, I know. Crazy, to park even for two seconds on the word in.

But in high school, in was the end-all, be-all. Everybody wanted to be part of the in crowd, (Sing it with me, if you know it: “I’m in with the in crowd. I go where the in crowd goes. I’m in with the in crowd. And I know what the in crowd knows…”)

Years later, I still want to be in: “in God’s sight” (Romans 2:13), “in God’s service” (1 Thessalonians 3:2), “in God’s love” (Jude 1:21) and “in God’s presence” (Hebrews 9:24).

Please, Lord, count us in.

…perfect… Isaiah 26:3

This word makes perfectionists twitch, but here’s what it actually means: “constant” (AMP), “true” (ERV), “complete” (EXB), and “whole” (MSG). It means finished. It means Thy will be done. 

It doesn’t mean we get it right; it means God gets it right. “As for God, his way is perfect” (2 Samuel 22:31).

And his perfect way leads, naturally, to…

Peace After the Storm

…peace… Isaiah 26:3

Some translations make this word perfect by doubling it: “peace, peace” (EXB), “shalom shalom” (OJB). Like squaring a number. Peace to the second power.

“Peace, peace, to those far and near,” says the Lord (Isaiah 57:19).

Peace is what everyone wants and few can describe: “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding” (Philippians 4:7). Exactly so.

What is peace? Knowing we are in the center of God’s will. How can we be sure we’re there? “The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will” (Acts 22:14). His sovereignty is how he keeps us in perfect peace.

Remember last week’s bracelet? “God has this!” He still does.

…those… Isaiah 26:3

It’s not very personal sounding, but the fact is, those means us: his followers, his believers, his children, his own. That’s who rests in perfect peace.

…whose… Isaiah 26:3

It’s an ownership word, a possessive word. Those who know God’s peace. Those who have taken the next step—not with their feet, but with their heads.

Your Mind

…minds… Isaiah 26:3

True fact: my mind gets me in trouble. Yes, my heart belongs completely to God, but my mind sometimes wanders down the wrong path. No, not that direction. Not R-rated avenues. Prideful places, mostly. Hoping to impress. Wanting to wow.

Left unchecked by the Holy Spirit, my mind can also drift into dark alleys where jealousy and envy lurk in the shadows, and self-pity sticks out its big foot to trip me.

Here’s God’s sure solution: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2), and while you’re at it, God says, “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds” (Deuteronomy 11:18). That’s the whole point of our weekly studies together: to fix his Word in our hearts and minds.

When his life-giving Word is inside there, my thoughts have a safe place to land.

…are… Isaiah 26:3

Like the word will above, are sweeps away any sense of maybe.

…steadfast,… Isaiah 26:3

Outside of a Bible study, I could go a whole year and never use the word steadfast. It’s what writers call a 10-cent word. Not commonly used. We might say “steady” or “faithful.” But steadfast is more delicious.

A steadfast mind that’s “stayed on thee” (ASV) produces “sound thoughts” (CEB) that “cannot be changed” (GW). Now, that’s what I’m talking about. How can we have minds that don’t wander off, don’t wobble out of control? How, Lord?

…because… Isaiah 26:3

Here is the why, the how, the answer, the because.

This is the whole of the Christian life on the head of a nail, driven into the flesh of the One who lived and died and rose again, so we would believe and love and have faith.

The Cross, the Nail, the Crown of Thorns

…they… Isaiah 26:3

Goes with those, above. They is us. And this is what we gotta do.

…trust… Isaiah 26:3

There it is. The T word. It’s woven all through Scripture. You’ll hear it again before we’re done counting down our twenty favorite verses.

Trust is putting down my shield of defense and picking up God’s: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me” (Psalm 28:7).

Trust means letting God fight my battles: the battles in my mind, the battles in my flesh (Lord, we need a bigger sword!), and the battles in my heart.

For those of us who have trust issues, this week’s verse is the way out. Better yet, the way in.

…in… Isaiah 26:3

It’s impossible to simply trust. You have to trust in something or Someone: “in you they trusted and were not put to shame” (Psalm 22:5).

Yes, even our tiny word in matters, because it leads us to the object of our sentence (I can hear my eighth-grade grammar teacher clapping). Everything we’ve been learning points to…

…you. Isaiah 26:3

Yes, you, Lord. You alone are trustworthy.

Now, check this out: the last word of this verse is the same as the first word of this verse. You. God. The One who makes everything possible. He wraps this truth in his embrace and holds it all together for us.

So much truth in a mere sixteen words! It took sixteen hundred Liz words to scratch the surface of just one sentence from God’s Word.

Wow, Lord.

Without even trying, I think I’ve committed this verse to heart. How about you? Give it a go.

You will keep in perfect peace
   those whose minds are steadfast, 
   because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3

Now it’s your turn

What is perfect peace? What does it look like, feel like to you? If you’ve been there, describe it for the rest of us. Kindly add your response under Post a Comment below.

Next week, we’ll hang out in the Old Testament and unpack #13 of the verses you love. Nothing unlucky about this beautiful, powerful truth! Until next week, know that you are loved.

Your sister, Liz

Your Sister in Christ, Liz Curtis Higgs

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50 Responses to The 20 Verses You Love Most: #14 Perfect Peace

  1. Karen DeArmond Gardner May 22, 2013 at 8:34 am #

    Liz you unpack the word with a wallop. Piece by piece, word by word you encourage and challenge.

    http://Www.KarenDeArmondGardner.com.

  2. Birdie May 22, 2013 at 8:56 am #

    I pray this verse by personalizing it with my name and the pronoun “I.” The verse becomes very personal and yes, the “peace that passes all understanding” comes to me and gives me His strength to do what I need to do today.

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:02 pm #

      I’ve done that many times as well, and it really helps bring the truth home. Thanks for sharing, Birdie.

  3. elizabeth Hoagland May 22, 2013 at 9:30 am #

    Liz! We just studied this verse yesterday in our Bible study, “Duty or Delight–Knowing Where You Stand With God”, by Tammy Head. We were tackling/unpacking the pieces of the armor of God. Re: our “feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the Gospel of peace….” (Eph. 6:15), Tammy said, “Note in what we stand firm–peace.” She said , “You and I are to be so familiar with the gospel that we can recognize truth from the Devil’s deceptions and immediately share it…” THEN, she pointed us to your verse of the week, Isa. 26:3 and she asked, “What state of mind does trusting God bring?” PERFECT peace…In these very uncertain times, as we beg for peace and blessings especially to those in Oklahoma, thank you Liz for your gift of unpacking Scripture. May we (including our MINDS!!!) rest in perfect peace. Love & hugs across town! Elizabeth =)

  4. Sue May 22, 2013 at 9:42 am #

    Aww Liz, today is my birthday and this verse along with your precious writing about each word feels like a very special birthday present from my Lord. Life has been crazy lately, God knows just how crazy – I’ve felt like I’ve lost my peace. Now here is this wonderful verse. Thank you for being God’ instrument in sending me this most delightful birthday present.

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:03 pm #

      Hope you had a PEACE-filled birthday, Sue! So glad you spent a few minutes of it with us.

  5. Joanne Martinie May 22, 2013 at 10:15 am #

    Perfect Peace
    I have felt that and it is an amazing feeling. Everything looks, feels wonderful! There are no worries in my thoughts, no problems I can’t handle, only perfect peace. It has to be like a little glimpse of heaven.

    • Carole May 22, 2013 at 12:46 pm #

      I totally agree!

  6. Miriam Lozano May 22, 2013 at 10:45 am #

    It is so interesting that today in my devotions I was meditating on contentment. The verse that I was meditating on was Job 36:11 If they obey and serve him, they shall spend their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures. Perfect peace is what contentment is all about. No matter what circumstances we are facing we can find peace and contentment in the Lord. That is so comforting to me. Thank you Liz for sharing this Word today. I pray that all who read your blog will find peace and contentment in Christ.

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:04 pm #

      That’s my prayer as well, Miriam. Contentment and peace are very much cut from the same fine cloth.

  7. Wanda May 22, 2013 at 12:09 pm #

    The time I felt the most peace was actually a gift from God to carry me through the next few hours of excruciating fear. I didn’t know why I was feeling such well-being, peace, and communtion with God. I even said “God I don’t know what I’m doing different this morning, but I’d better figure it out because I want to feel like this all the time.” I don’t really know how to describe it other than I felt like I was being held in the very hands of God. Of course it wasn’t anything that I was doing different – it was God! He was letting me know (without me knowing) that He was right there with me and would take care of me. The peace was suddenly gone when I was confronted with a gun, tied up with tape, threatened with my life and my husband’s life. The peace was replaced with fear like I have never experienced before or since. For over 2 hours I was held hostage, waiting on my husband to get home from work, knowing that we were probably going to die. That fear drove me right to God in a way that I had not gone for a long time. You see I had been angry at God for not answering my prayers that way I thought they should be answered, and because of that I had decided that God didn’t answer my prayers, so I stopped asking him for anything. While I was totally helpless and out of my mind in fear, I somehow had the presence of mind to go to God in true prayer. I prayed for God to send his angels to protect us. I argued in my mind that that was wishful thinking because how could they stop bullets. But then I argued that God can do anything if he wants to. You see I had learned the “If he wants to” part well. I told God that I knew that he could save us if it was his will, and accepted his will whichever way it went. I finally accepted God’s soveignty. I finally accepted that He knows best. My husband did get home from work, and there was a fight with the gun, and my husband was grazed in the head with a bullet and was shot through the arm with the bullet going in one place and out another. Even with my husband being pistol whipped in the head to where he needed 21 staples, being shot twice, being hit right in the face breaking his glasses, having his thumb almost bitten off, the angels I had prayed for helped him physically throw the intruder out of our house through a glass door. My husband was lifelined to a major hospital, where he not only survived but no major damage had been done to him. The bullet in the head had grazed him. The bullet in the arm had gone through without hitting and injuring any tendons, nerves, or bones. He was stapled up, stiched up and was able to go home the next day. God showed me that he loves me, cares for me, wants the best for me, and will always be there with me. After all this terror I remembered the peace He had given me just before and I knew that it had been a blessed gift from God to give me the strength to get through the next few hours. I thank God for his peace and care.

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 22, 2013 at 12:36 pm #

      Wanda, if we were handing out prizes for the best example of experiencing God’s PERFECT PEACE, you would win, hands down. Oh. My. Goodness.

      Praising God that you are both well, despite all your trials. He is most assuredly FAITHFUL!

      • Ruth May 22, 2013 at 9:23 pm #

        Well! That stopped me in my tracks! And to think that sometimes my life, well, sucks…….don’t think so 🙂
        Wanda, all I can say is I agree with Liz, you win hands down!!!

        • Mary Lou May 23, 2013 at 3:18 pm #

          Amen and Amen….a hundred percent in agreement with Liz.

        • Valli May 28, 2013 at 12:29 pm #

          AMEN. I know this doesn’t minimize anything that any of have gone thru … God truly knows what each of us will be dealt with in our lives, and how we will use it … FOR HIS GLORY! This truly shows me the ‘grace of God’ and His ‘neverending’ deep love for us, even when we have been struggling with issues in our own walk. Sooo learning, how little I know as my years walking with Him increase … and how ‘imperfect’ I am … and how everything about Him IS! I am truly loving this study … what a wonderful way to connect with other women who love the LORD in a ‘busy, busy’ world where, at times, you can feel like you are sailing without human contact. Thank you, Liz, for using the gifts the LORD has given you to touch other women’s lives. Thoroughly enjoyed ‘LOVED BY GOD’, and looking forward (soon) to dipping into ‘THE GIRL’S STILL GOT IT …’ (suffered a stroke awhile back, and just a little slow keeping up with everything … cannot wait to get into it!) … Bless you.
          <3

    • susan May 22, 2013 at 12:40 pm #

      Wow! Wanda, what an experience! and what a great God we have! so glad that you both survived such a horrific thing!

  8. Rhetta Mayfield May 22, 2013 at 12:16 pm #

    ‘Perfect Peace’ to me is stepping into the unknown, unexpected, unplanned and untimely death of my husband of 45 years and knowing that my Father planned this very part of my life before I was born. ‘Perfect Peace’ in floundering daily in making decisions, in getting up to face a new day – alone, in wondering why this now – just as I retired, and trusting a Father Who in wisdow guides me daily with His eye. ‘Perfect Peace’ is laying my head on my pillow at night without my mate, without one to share secrets, without without hearing the last “I love you” of the day, but assured that because of Jesus I will lay down and sleep peacefully, protected and preserved because my Father is the Strong Man of my house!

    • susan May 22, 2013 at 12:42 pm #

      Rhetta, sounds like perfect peace is giving you the strength to get through each day. I just prayed that God will comfort your heart, help you through the lonely days and nights and that His peace continue to fill your life.

    • Mary Lou May 23, 2013 at 3:20 pm #

      How your words and testimony blessed my heart. May you feel Him ever near you, holding you close.

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:08 pm #

      Rhetta, I am SO glad your Bible study sisters here were quick to offer a comforting word. You are absolutely right—none of this was a surprise to God. He is holding you close, whispering that last “I love you” of the day. It’s clear you understand “Perfect Peace” very well, and have much to teach the rest of us. Thanks so much for sharing your heart.

  9. Carole May 22, 2013 at 12:45 pm #

    I experienced perfect peace from God just a few weeks ago, I have suffered from insecurity my whole life. A dear friend at church told me to ask God where the pain that caused the insecurity came from. So one night in the quiet of my room, I asked Him. It was amazing how He showed me the situation the pain came from. At that moment not only did I thank Him I gave the pain to Him and forgave the one who caused it. I have felt a peace beyond all understanding since. The things that used to cause me anxiety are no longer doing so. I praise Him for His amazing love to me!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:11 pm #

      What a testimony, Carole! You were very trusting, very brave, to face that pain. And so WISE to release it to the Lord and forgive the one who caused it. That indeed is Perfect Peace. Rejoicing at your courage, an example for us all.

  10. susan May 22, 2013 at 12:49 pm #

    Perfect peace came to me during a big upheaval in my life. We serve in the ministry and we were under attack for taking a stand. My husband was fired, but the congregation continued to take sides over the issue (gambling) . ..it split the church. We had packed up and were planning on moving. Those left in the church were few and they asked my husband to stay. We prayed and prayed and God wouldn’t give my husband peace over leaving or me peace over staying. Finally, we went away for a few days to pray, talk, and just seek wisdom. And as we prayed God gave us both this feeling of peace about staying . . .so to me perfect peace is staying in the storm and knowing He is there with me.

    Liz, I have loved these – -do we have to stop at 20? can’t we go to 50? 🙂

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:14 pm #

      Another great testimony (sisters, you are blowing me away this week!). How often have I rushed forward instead of waiting, praying, seeking. Well done, Susan. And your definition is spot on: “perfect peace is staying in the storm and knowing He is there with me.” YES!

  11. Janet May 22, 2013 at 1:04 pm #

    He is the God of miracles
    Who cares when the sparrow falls
    Who comforts the brokenhearted
    And calms life’s unexpected squalls.

    He holds us in His nail-scarred hands
    And whispers “Peace, peace.”
    His love surrounds us, evermore
    His kindnesses never cease.

  12. Sherry May 22, 2013 at 1:26 pm #

    Perfect peace comes by surrendering everything to Him and trusting Him with each situation and outcome. Whether our trials are from things our children are facing, health issues, work related issues, financial problems, injuries, relationship issues, one only receives perfect peace by asking God for His peace, while placing each concern in His hands, trusting and looking to Him daily. Perfect peace only comes from God. Perfect peace is resting in His care. Our joy then comes from knowing who God is and what He can do!

  13. Krista May 22, 2013 at 4:14 pm #

    I love this verse and read it every night before I go to sleep. A few months ago I was having trouble sleeping, and when I did sleep I would have nightmares. Not very peaceful sleep! So I prayed and asked God to give me His peace. Over the next few weeks of reading my Bible and praying about this, God revealed to me a ton of comforting scripture, including Isaiah 26:3, about His peace, His protection, and His power. So I wrote them down on note cards and read them each night before I go to sleep. (an idea I got from you, dear Liz!) I sleep pretty well now. I haven’t been having any nightmares, and most mornings I wake up with a praise song in my head. Peace is a gift God wants to give to all of His children. I love the verse that follows this one. Verse 4 says “Trust in The Lord forever, for The Lord, The Lord is the Rock Eternal.” I love these studies. Can’t wait to learn the verse for next week!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:18 pm #

      Blessed to hear you tried out my simply suggestion to read a verse just before you fall asleep and again the moment you wake up. It really DOES make a difference, doesn’t it? I sometimes have nightmares too (stress-related, usually), so I know it’s helped me sleep more peacefully and wake up with a better attitude. Always a good thing. :>)

  14. Shelley May 22, 2013 at 5:31 pm #

    I experienced perfect peace when I had to go into emergency surgery. I was scheduled for a different surgery a week later, and had been preparing myself spiritually by posting uplifting, helpful scripture all over my walls on sticky notes. I couldn’t help but absorb them. After the surgery (which the prep for the other was very helpful), there were complications, and I was unable to have anything (not even water) by mouth for 7 days. I was weak as a newborn kitten. I prayed that God would send His warrior angels to surround and protect my family and home while I was recovering. I felt His perfect peace, and complete relaxation in it. I could just feel Him there, with the angels surrounding our home, keeping trouble at bay. My favorite verse: He will hold your right hand. He not only held my hand, but cradled me to Him also!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:20 pm #

      Seven days without even water! Clearly the Lord alone could sustain someone through that. Again, a powerful testimony to his faithfulness. Thanks for the post, Shelley!

  15. patti iverson May 22, 2013 at 7:07 pm #

    Awww, I know His perfect peace even when tears are rollin’ down my cheeks, my knees are knockin’, peeps are mad or sad, or bad–life’s confusing and nuthin’s amusing. Or–I know His perfect peace when all is fabulous, fun, and favorable to me ‘n mine. Perfect peace is when all is well with my soul because HIS SOUL is in my soul. Ta da! God’s got it all covered–so I can just go forth and do life in joy for His glory. Woot woot!

  16. Ruth May 22, 2013 at 9:27 pm #

    You know perfect peace is something that I have experienced a number of times and after each one I am still just as amazed and just as humbled by God’s love and grace. I find that when I remind my self of scripture – be still and know I am God; trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding; give thanks and the peace of God – is when I am most at peace. Trials come and go and this is what brings trust and grows my faith and knowledge in Him.

  17. Linda H May 23, 2013 at 8:43 am #

    I most recently experienced peace when my son called on Sunday from Edmond, OK to say his family was in the church shelter and a tornado was headed their way. His text a few minutes later said “church hit. We are ok”. Trust Jesus! He called again on Monday and I wanted to be scared again but God filled that place again with peace and trust. They are okay now and a little stronger now. I have to put down my shield of defense and pick up God’s. He is better eqipped to fight those battles. Thank you Liz that God already knew He would use you to share this verse with us at this very moment! GOD HAS THIS!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:21 pm #

      AMEN, Linda. God definitely has this! Thanks SO much for sharing your very recent and truly harrowing experience. Praise God for a happy ending!

  18. Julie Sunne May 23, 2013 at 11:34 am #

    Another stellar job of filling me with much to chew on and cheer about. Thanks, Liz!

  19. Michelle Edmondson May 23, 2013 at 4:49 pm #

    I love the word stedfast, God says,He will keep me in perfect peace when my mind is stedfast – when my mind and eyes are fixed on Him. That word ‘stedfast’ works both ways, I am reminded of the song
    The stedfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end.
    They are new every morning, great is thy faithfulness, oh Lord, great is thy faithfulness.
    God has shown me over and over that he is faithful and merciful and I that I can have perfect peace because my trust is in Him.

    The way you bring these words of scripture to us is beautiful Liz, thank you

  20. Bonnie Brown May 24, 2013 at 12:15 am #

    My day started off good, but quickly became stressed when someone I was waiting for was delayed. I allowed this situation to fester all day. I talked with a friend about how I felt. I missed my Bible Study because of this person. I tried to write a letter to one person about the situation, then tried again. I deleted both and just tried to refocus. It’s late (12:11) and as I was cleaning off my table and started to put my computer away. There it was, calling out, I didn’t read today’s verse and study. Well, it really spoke to me. Let go and let God…, I say this all the time, yet, today, I had let it get me. Trusting in God to fight my battles for me. Have faith and He will keep you in perfect peace, keep your mind and heart on Him and trust He will take care of everything. Thank you Liz. Thank you God!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:23 pm #

      God’s timing is impeccable, isn’t it? SO glad he gave you a full measure of peace, Bonnie.

  21. Tina W. May 24, 2013 at 9:18 am #

    Thanks Liz! I didn’t read this on Wednesday morning like I usually do….God needed me to read it today! My Mom had a heart attack last night and that perfect peace is surrounding our whole family! I’m also reminded of an old hymn that a dear saint of God used to sing at our church- “His eye is on the sparrow and I know He watches me”
    Perfect peace…..thank you Lord!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:25 pm #

      Tina, my prayers are with your Mom and your family this evening. Do let us know how she—and you—are doing.

  22. cathy gross May 24, 2013 at 9:54 pm #

    My stepson died in a terrible car crash during a police chase just before his 21st birthday.
    Apparently he had lost his license, drove anyway and the police chase ensued. No drugs, no alcohol, just bad judgement. The usual questions of why and how welled up in my husband. Yet I saw perfect peace in him when we picked out a casket, made arrangements and he consoled and guided young men his son had worked with. In the midst of tragedy he was able to hold onto God and walk in dignity and love.

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 24, 2013 at 10:28 pm #

      Oh, Cathy, I am very sorry to hear that you and your husband went through such a tragedy. And yet, what an amazing example of God’s peace and strength. Thank you for sharing your story with us, dear sister.

  23. Becky Frith May 26, 2013 at 7:22 pm #

    I didn’t read this post on Wednesday either.We were trying to salvage clothes and books following the destruction of our home by the tornado that devastated Moore, OK, but I needed this reminder as the days have been increasing in stress. We have been trying to take things one day at a time. On Monday we knew the tornado was coming and we hunkered down in our hallway between the bedrooms and the living room. I was perfectly calm. I told the Lord if this was how He was going to take us, and if it was His will, I am ready to go. I had perfect peace because I know I am His. God is not finished with us yet. We lost the house, but we are alive to tell you about it. My husband has the story of how the T came thru, but I was a bit disappointed that My Lord chose to leave me here. Don keeps repeating, “The prayer of a righteous man availeth much”. Now I have been reminded that that peace continues after the “storm”. BTW I think we saved your books with the help of a team from Carterville Christian Church in Carterville. MO. We have also had aid from IDES and our home church, Draper Park Christian Church of OKC. Our family is distant, but we have other family that is not, Praise The Lord!

    • Linda H May 27, 2013 at 8:51 am #

      Oh Precious Lord lift this dear sister Becky and her family up into your loving arms. Praise the Lord ; Praise God our Savior! For each day He carries us in His arms! Psalm 68:19 I am going to give my son your name to be praying as he will be in Moore today to help with clean up.

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 27, 2013 at 5:51 pm #

      Dear Becky, I am SO sorry. Only someone who has been through a devastating tornado can fully understand all the challenges you are facing this week–physically, financially, emotionally, spiritually. The rest of us stand back, overwhelmed, not knowing how to help, yet longing to ease your burden somehow. I can safely say that everyone who read your post is lifting up your family in prayer, asking God to continue bringing his perfect peace in the aftermath of the storm. Please, Lord, hear our prayers!

  24. Esnath ndlovu May 28, 2013 at 11:42 am #

    I thank God’s faithfulness.i am in a desert like situation in everything that concerns me and i hate to speak it with my mouth but all am saying i cant believe the peace i have

  25. Ginetta June 5, 2013 at 6:57 pm #

    I have been at a new job for 6 months and one particular woman seemed to be very uncomfortable around me and didn’t like how I worked. I admit it got under my skin. Then I read this blog and decided to change my tack. I started to pray for her and every time I sensed she was complaining to my boss about me ,I focused on this scripture. Well, yesterday a changed woman came to work and I had the longest conversation ever, with her. Thank you Lord for breaking whatever was making her bitter, and for changing me too. AMEN

  26. Susan Ireland August 5, 2013 at 7:08 pm #

    And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. > ~~~ I started praying the Lord’s prayer , such as give me this day my daily bread, my shelter, my finances, peace with my family & and then each section – PEACE – I LOVE GOD, JESUS AND HOLY SPIRIT AND this way of praying has given me more trust. And you have to depend on God each day !!

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