Practice Peace

Practice Peace
Rejoice in Jesus!
Terry R. Baughman

“Put into practice the example of all that you have heard from me or seen in my life and the God of peace will be with you in all things” (Philippians 4:9 TPT).

Our series concludes with this instruction. Put the example into practice! Being a Christ follower is not a one and done deal. It requires discipline and continual practice. The things that we have heard, studied, and been taught, must be integrated into our lives, and applied in a practical way.

Paul wrote to the young Timothy that he should, “Continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:14–15 NIV). We all learn from the example of others and should put those good lessons into practice. When we know the lives of our mentors we are confident to follow their teachings and their example. 

Paul’s example, and ours’ should be the same, allowing the God of peace to be shown in all that we do. It’s not just one lesson that we’ve learned and passed the quiz, but several life lessons that Paul leaves with us. He tells us to put all these examples into action in our Christian living. 

Paul demonstrated the principles that he taught and was unapologetic in his request for believers to follow him as he followed Christ. (See 1 Corinthians 11:1 KJV.) In the NIV Paul is quoted, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” The NKJV used the word imitate in the passage, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” 

In the previous chapter of our text Paul wrote, “Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do” (Philippians 3:17 NIV). These character qualities should be seen in the lives of all believers. That’s for our example, and to be an example to others who seek God’s path. Seek out those who are followers of Jesus, and follow those whose lives reflect His transformation. 

Sometimes we are reluctant to ask people to follow our lead and practice our example. It could be that we are not confident in our relationship with God, or that we are not being intentional about following biblical teaching. To ask someone to follow our example is not to presume perfection, or, a prideful arrogance, but to pledge integrity in our lifestyle, and a desire to fulfill His leading, and continue in His way.

The result of those who put into practice Paul’s example are assured the peace of God will be with them in all things. What greater outcome could we expect or desire than the assurance of the peace of God to fill our lives. In a world of chaos and constant striving, it is a blessed promise to have the assurance of peace in our relationship with God. 

As we practice the spiritual and scriptural lessons we have learned, we will continue to experience the great peace of God. His peace is that, “peace of God, which transcends all understanding” (Philippians 4:7 NIV). Let us practice for peace!

Theme passage:
“My beloved ones, don’t ever limit your joy or fail to rejoice in the wonderful experience of knowing our Lord Jesus!” (Philippians 3:1 TPT).