DON’T SUBSTITUTE SERVING FOR SITTING
The reason that some believers are not at peace is illustrated in the story of Mary and Martha. This story contrasts the troubled believer with the believer at peace.
Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving and came to him, and said, Lord dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone?
Luke 10:38-40
Bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
Luke 10:41-42
The first thing that happens to believers when they lack peace and are troubled in their hearts is they begin to neglect the most needful part of life, which is to sit at the feet of Jesus and hear His word. (Abide in Him.) When the hearts of believers are troubled, many times they try to substitute serving the Lord for sitting at His feet. Often, they become irritated at those who are peacefully sitting with Jesus—just as Martha became vexed with Mary.
The purpose of the fruit of peace is to be an umpire in decisions of direction and purpose for our lives.
What is God telling us to do?
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Col. 3:15
Peace must be developed by an act of our will through practice. The Greek word translated “rule” in this verse is brabeuo (brab-yoo-o), meaning “to act as an umpire …, to arbitrate, to decide.” The peace of God should be the deciding factor in any decisions a believer makes. As we cultivate the fruit of peace, it will keep us safe within the boundaries of God’s will.
God uses the fruit of peace to guide the steps of His children so that their lives will be in keeping with His perfect plan and purpose.
Peace be with you!
Paul Milligan
Charis Guest Speaker