We can experience an unexplainable and comforting sense of peace when we talk to God in prayer. Have you ever been praying to God, or more like crying out to Him about something that distressed your soul? You were hurt, in pain, and wondered if you’d ever get over what happened to you. But after your prayer, or while you were praying, this sense of calm came over you. Your situation didn’t change, but it was as if God placed His hand on your shoulder to steady your shaken emotions and your soul quieted. That’s God speaking to you. That’s Him answering your prayer with His peace that surpasses understanding.
Philippians 4:6-7 says: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 ESV)
This scripture is saying that when we pray, God answers with His peace. And not just any peace, but peace that surpasses our understanding. Other versions say that God’s peace “transcends all understanding,” “exceeds anything we can understand,” or is “far beyond human understanding.” Our human understanding thinks that peace is when everything is well in our lives. But God’s peace goes beyond that and says even if everything is falling apart, I can remain calm because God’s peace is not based on our circumstances.
Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding. Help me to turn to You in prayer and trust in Your calming presence, no matter what I face. May Your peace guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, amen.
Reflect: Can you recall a time when you experienced God’s peace in a difficult situation?