Perfect Peace

“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.”

Isaiah 26:3 NKJV

Edward Bickersteth spent his life in ministry. Born in London in 1825, he became an influential church leader, serving as editor of the hymnal companion to the Church of England’s Book of Common Prayer.

While on vacation in August 1875, Bickersteth heard a sermon based on Isaiah 26. The minister stressed that the Hebrew text repeated the word we translate as “peace” (shalom shalom). The implication was that the world may promise peace, but God could provide something more: absolute perfection and absolute peace.

Bickersteth remembered these words when visiting a relative. Reading from Isaiah, he was impressed with the importance of peace and wrote a poem he called “Peace, Perfect Peace.” Later this became the text for a beloved hymn.

Bickersteth wondered if peace was possible “in this dark world of sin.” But he knew that because of Jesus’ blood, we really could have peace. We may face difficulties, but we find rest when we do His will. Sorrows may surge around us, but we can find calmness in Him. If we feel alone, we can be safe in His keeping.

We may not know the future, but Jesus “is on the throne.” He “has vanquished death and all its powers … Earth’s struggles soon shall cease,” and we will spend eternity experiencing Heaven’s perfect peace.

Is there any turmoil in your heart? The Bible promises that God can give you perfect peace right now. Jesus is on the throne. Trust Him!

Prayer

Dear Lord Jesus, I commit these situations to You: _________. Please take away worry and fear. Fill me with peace. I surrender to You. In Your name, amen.