Psalm 34:14

Turn from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.

PRAYER

Lord, help me to pursue peace this week in my interaction with you, myself, and others.

Help me to be prepared as I enter into each challenging situation that presents itself with the intention of activating your peace through the knowledge of your word.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Additional Devotions

Who loves shoes? I bet there are an awful lot of shoe lovers out there; just the sight of them makes you happy. Well, you are in luck. This week, we are talking shoes! Not necessarily the fashion-forward kind, but the spiritually forward kind. And, although they may not be as visually dazzling, they will prove to be stunning, nonetheless!

What am I talking about? I am talking about spiritual shoes of peace. They are our third directive of armor that God calls us to put on in Ephesians 6:13-18.

Physically, the Roman soldiers wore special shoes in battle. They enabled them to traverse difficult and unpredictable terrain with safety and stability.

Much in the same way, God also directs us to wear shoes. Only these shoes are spiritual in nature as they are made of peace. Even so, their purpose is similar—to protect and stabilize us as we traverse the difficult and unpredictable terrain of our everyday lives.

How does this work?

First, knowledge is power. The key to activating this type of supernatural peace is found in trusting and believing the word of God. And the only way to do that, is to know it and use it. When we cultivate this kind of peace, and wear it wherever we go, nothing can stop us.

And, if knowledge is power in our pursuit of peace, then preparation is paramount.

Inevitably, we will come face-to-face with the storms of life—loss of a job, a family member gets seriously sick, a car accident, or a rebellious child—and will be tempted to focus on the faltering circumstances surrounding us. However, if we are prepared with peace at the forefront of the storm, then it will protect us and anchor our footing as we trust that God is working behind the scenes for the greater good.

Only then, can we traverse dangerous terrain and travel through difficult circumstances without fear. Why? Because we have our faith in knowing the bigger picture—that what awaits us is greater than anything we could possibly suffer in this world.

And even more than that, when we decide beforehand to put on shoes of peace,  we will possess a confidence that calms our anxious soul despite the volatile outlook. Pretty powerful shoes, huh?

Reflect and Respond:

In all their power, our spiritual shoes of peace inevitably leave a footprint. What does your footprint reveal to others?

Before reacting to a difficult situation this week, be mindful of putting on shoes of peace. And as you walk through the tough and uncertain terrain, let the peace of God protect you and help you to stand firm in the truth of his word.

Remember, you are not alone. Be blessed as you walk in peace this week.