Written by Scripture:
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” — Isaiah 26:3 (KJV)
Historical and Exegetical Context:
The book of Isaiah is one of the most significant prophetic books in the Bible. Chapter 26 is part of a larger song of praise for God’s deliverance, where the prophet Isaiah assures the people of Judah that God will ultimately bring peace and restoration. The original audience was living through turbulent times, facing threats from surrounding nations, but Isaiah reminded them that trust in God would result in peace. This verse emphasizes that peace is not just a feeling, but a state of being that God promises to those who trust Him fully and keep their focus on Him.
Greek/Hebrew Word Insight:
The Hebrew word for “peace” in this verse is שָׁלוֹם (shalom), which means more than just the absence of conflict. It refers to wholeness, completeness, and well-being in every area of life. The word “perfect” is translated from תָּמִיד (tamid), meaning “continuous” or “constant.” So, the promise is not just for temporary peace, but for enduring, complete peace that comes from trusting God. The phrase “mind is stayed” comes from the Hebrew verb סָמַךְ (samak), meaning to lean on or rest upon. It conveys the idea of relying fully on God, as a child would trust their parent.
Reflection:
One of the blessings that a child experiences in life is knowing that all their needs will be met if they just look to their parents. When a child gets hurt, they cry for mom; when they are afraid, they run to dad. When they are excited about something new, they eagerly share it with them, or when they are performing a new stunt, they push for their attention as they perform. During moments when they don’t know what to do, they look to their parents, and when they are heartbroken, they seek to bury their faces into their arms. Why? Because a child knows as long as they keep their mind on the ones whom they love—the ones who will be there for them in their time of need, the ones who are careful to take care of every little detail of their life—they will always be in perfect peace. This is the image that God wants us to have of Him. God is the greatest parent we will ever have and longs for our gaze to be upon Him in our ups and downs, our joys and sorrows, our moments of fear and certainty. His eyes are always on you because you are His beloved child. When the troubles of life seek to pull you into a pit of despair, just remember: you are only one thought away from entering into His perfect peace for you.
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, we thank You for the peace which surpasses all understanding. We thank You that we are only one thought away from entering into Your presence no matter where we are. We pray, Father, that as the days grow cold, the love of many begins to fade, and the future of our world looks to be in dire straits, remind us to keep our thoughts on You so we may enter into Your rest. It’s in Your name, Jesus, we pray, Amen.
Action Step:
Today, when you find yourself overwhelmed or stressed, pause for a moment and intentionally focus your thoughts on God. Speak a prayer or read a verse that reminds you of His peace. Let this be a daily practice to help you stay connected to the perfect peace God offers.
Prophetic Word – October 11, 2024 – By MaryEllen McCloud, Replenished Hope Ministries
The Lord says, “My Angels are assigned to bring down that which you didn’t even foresee. Let Me wash over you My Peace and Understanding beyond comprehension. Everything is going to be ok. Would I lie to you? I have watch over and taken care of you since the beginning. Look again. My Hand moves over every detail and concern. Nothing is too small for Me to handle with care. Let Go of your striving, and Let Me run with that burden. Can I not do a better job? You are not walking in lack. Change your mindset. You are walking in abundance, and My Kingdom is at hand. I will spend all of your days pouring out all of My Love upon you. Do not look down, Look up for your deliverance is at your doorstep. I hold nothing back, for you are worthy of everything that I have. You are not denied, you are blessed and highly favored. The world will tell you otherwise, but who will you trust and listen to. I created you, and I will be with you always. Forget your troubles and come sit with Me. I long to pour out My heart to you in this day. I will show you such wonders that are circling all around you. Your smile is about to return, and you will walk in My Glory. Just keep walking forward!”
