You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You. – (Isaiah 26:3, NIV)
God, You give true peace to people who depend on You, to those who trust in You. – (Isaiah 26:3, ERV)
Perfect, absolute peace surrounds those whose imaginations are consumed with You; they confidently trust in You. – (Isaiah 26:3, TPT)
You will keep the peace, a perfect peace, for all who trust in You, for those who dedicate their hearts and minds to You. – (Isaiah 26:3, VOICE)
As I read the first translation of this verse, I really paused to think about what it means to have a mind that is steadfast. I even went so far as to look it up, so that I might ponder the meaning further. According to dictionary.com, steadfast is to be fixed in direction, firm in purpose, and unwavering. To be fixed in direction and firm in purpose without wavering does indeed protect His perfect peace. It is in that space of knowing Who is leading us in the direction to which we are called, and Who has created us with purpose that we find His peace is present as we trust in Him. Our peace wavers when we trust what we see rather than who holds us in the hollow of His hands. Though my heart and mind are dedicated to Christ, my eyes deceive my heart when I allow my peace to be found in what I see. For the last couple of years, what has been seen has not pointed to peace. However, each time I slow down, fix my eyes and heart on Him, His perfect peace is present and my mind returns to the steadfast state to which I have been called. It is an ongoing battle, particularly when few things are as anticipated or hoped for. May we ever seek the Lord to show us how to be steadfast in Him, so that we may know His perfect and ongoing peace.
Lord, help us trust You,
To keep perfect peace;
In each steadfast heart,
That faithfully seeks.
You’re ever present,
To hear all we pray;
In love, You answer,
As peace comes to stay.
Help us fix our eyes,
Securely on You;
Let not what surrounds,
Take away the truth.
In You there is peace,
A hope that’s secure;
Future forever,
Knowing You’ll be near.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are good and that the peace You provide is not dependent on our circumstances. Thank You that You bring peace to us amidst chaos, and settle our weary hearts. Forgive us for allowing the trials of this world to steal the perfect peace that You offer. Teach us to continually, steadfastly fix our eyes and hearts on You, for in that space of trust, we find Your peace is present. Show us how to love those around us in ways that offer Your peace, even when it seems impossible to find. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we keep our minds steadfast on You because You are trustworthy, and Your promises true. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. – Psalm 51:10
Revelations In Writing 