Taking time to actively analyze situations according to God’s will, through meditation, reinforce our spiritual defenses, especially during times of trial. In Philippians 4:8-9 Paul wrote: Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are noble, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoev - er things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things. The things, which you learned, and received, and heard, and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace shall be with you We cannot dwell on anxious thoughts when we fill our minds with truth, purity, and beauty. Sometimes it’s hard to silence negative thoughts. Don’t give up. Instead, dig deeper and explore the “why.” When peace feels out of reach, it’s time to draw nearer to God. Fasting is also a very powerful tool—voluntarily go - ing without food and water for at least 24 hours—to refocus spiritually. Without daily distractions and basic needs, we see our weaknesses and our deep need for God. Fasting also binds Satan and quiet’s his influence. James 4:7–10 ex - plains: therefore submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-mind - ed. Lament [fast], and mourn, and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up. Fasting is like spiritual decluttering. It quiets the noise so we can hear God more clearly. As Isaiah 58:6 says: Is not this the fast that I have chosen? To loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy bur - dens, to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke?
Fasting can lift the weight of overwhelming trials and help us reset. With a refreshed outlook and renewed di- rection, we can move forward, physically and spiritual- ly, with godly confidence and peace of mind. A LIFE OF PEACE Peace requires maintenance. Through regular prayer, Bible study, meditation, and fasting, we can keep God’s peace active in our lives. Always keep your focus on God’s soon-coming King - dom. Trials that feel enormous now will seem small in light of our eternal rewards. Living peaceably with all men (Romans 12:18) takes on new meaning when you realize you’ll be work - ing alongside all kinds of people in God’s Kingdom, including those who may trouble you today (1 Timothy 2:4). How we react now could have lasting implications in the future. When you let peace rule, worry fades. Sleepless nights and anxious thoughts lose their grip. In Philippians 4:7 it states, “And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” The word “will guard” here means to be a watcher in advance or to mount guard as a sentinel. God’s peace not only rules, it protects from hostile invasion. Think of it as a spiritual shield, like a modern military “dome” defense system over your mind, deflecting harmful thoughts before they take root. Make the choice. Let the peace of God rule in your heart. Let it govern your thoughts. You’ll sleep better, worry less, and be a source of calm in a world that des- perately needs it. Live in peace just as God intended.
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