Devotions for Week 2: David: Finding Peace When We Are Troubled (WATCH HERE)
Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
In Colossians 3 Paul gives us a simple yet searching template for living with peace. These verses do not promise a life without trouble, but they do show us how to recognize when our hearts have drifted and how to return to a place of rest in Christ.
Often we notice our lack of peace before we understand its cause. Anxiety rises, irritation lingers, joy feels distant. These moments are invitations to pause and ask honest questions. When my heart is not at peace, the first question is this: Who or what is ruling my heart in this moment? Something always is. It may be fear of the future, the opinions of others, unmet expectations, or the desire to control outcomes. Jesus says in John 14:27, “My peace I give you.” But his peace rules only when he rules. If peace is missing, it may be because something else has taken the seat of authority in my heart.
The second question follows closely. What word of God and promise of God is not dwelling in me? Paul urges believers to let the message of Christ dwell in them richly. A heart empty of truth will quickly be filled with lies. When we forget God’s promises, we begin to rehearse worst case scenarios instead. Psalm 119:165 tells us that great peace belongs to those who love God’s law. Peace grows where truth is allowed to live abundantly. Singing psalms and hymns is not just worship. It is a way of reminding our souls of what is true when emotions are unreliable.
The third question is perhaps the most confronting. Am I living to the glory of God or myself? Paul brings everything into focus with verse 17. Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus. A self-centered life will always be restless. When life revolves around my comfort, my success, or my recognition, peace becomes fragile. But when my aim is God’s glory, even difficult circumstances can coexist with deep calm. Jesus himself lived this way, and Hebrews 12:2 reminds us that for the joy set before him, he endured the cross. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:1-2).
Paul weaves gratitude through all three verses. Thankfulness is both a fruit and a guard of peace. It shifts our attention from what is lacking to who is present. It anchors us again in grace. When peace is missing, gratitude often follows close behind.
These verses invite us into a daily practice. Notice the unrest. Ask the questions. Recenter on Christ. Peace returns not because life changes, but because our hearts realign under the loving rule of Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, let your love, grace and peace always fill my heart. AMEN.