September 15, 1999

FAMILY MATTERS: God's
holy word provides keys to peace
___
What must I do to have peace?

STEVE SMITH Minister to Singles Prestonwood Baptist Church, Plano

___ In one recent survey, 85 percent of people told researchers the Bible has no part in their daily lives. People are content to act on instinct, feeling, societal pressure, family pressure, impulse and the advice of friends. Then, when all else fails, they turn to the church or to the Bible.
___No wonder people are floundering. They seek comfort, advice and direction from the wrong sources.
___The Bible tells us we should not forget its teachings. We should hold on to the commandments of God.
___Yet in this fast-paced world that is constantly throwing things our way, we can easily forget what it is like to have peace in our lives. We forget to seek God and his purpose for our lives.
___How do we hold on to God's word and his commands and maintain a straight path when so many other things are pulling at our attention?
___ We hear his word (Romans 10:17). We listen to sermons and participate in Bible studies. We play Christian music, witness to non-believers and tell them of God's promise of salvation.
___ We read his word (Revelation 1:3). We take time to read the Bible--read different passages (Old and New Testament); read using different versions of the Bible to gain a greater appreciation of the word.
___ We study his word (Acts 17:11). We invest our time in personal Bible study by asking questions of the text: What is it saying? What does it mean? What is it saying to me?
___ We memorize his word (Psalm 119:11). Knowing the Bible provides comfort and hope; it is our greatest weapon in fighting temptation; it gives us confidence and help in witnessing.
___ We meditate on his word (Psalm 1:2-3). We take the Bible seriously. We contemplate its meaning and importance.
___As we make God's word the standard by which we live our lives, we begin to lean on God rather than our own understanding of our circumstances. We begin to trust him with the details of life. As we do that, he is faithful to bring peace. He is the giver of peace and desires that it be a characteristic of our lives--that we exemplify kindness and truth.
___Trusting in God means letting go of the trust you have in yourself. Holding tightly to his commands allows us to fall peacefully into the arms of Christ.

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