Serenity is a state of being calm, peaceful, and untroubled. Serenity is a by-product of trusting and acknowledging God and not leaning to our own understanding. (Prov. 3:5-6) We trust that God is at work both in and around us to address situations and bring them to completion. (Phil. 2:13, 1:6) We cast the whole of our anxieties on Him because we are in His care. (1 Peter 5:7) We have faith that He will meet our needs as we prioritize His Kingdom. (Phil. 4:19; Matt. 6:33) We know He works all things together for our good because we love Him and are the called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28).
In school we learned the Israeli folk song Shalom Chaverim, “Have peace my friend, be safe my friend, have peace, have peace. Til we meet again, till then my good friend have peace, have peace.” The Hebrew shalom is a salutation in coming or going that invokes a blessing. Shalom means peace, tranquility, friendship, making amends, safety, welfare, happiness, fullness, wholeness and completion… be to YOU! It is derivative of a word shalam which means to be safe or uninjured in mind or body. What a power-packed, life-giving word!!
New Life Covenant’s 2nd Anniversary
Jesus gave us His peace, empowering us to thrive in this troubled world, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27) Eirene Greek – peace, prosperity, quietness and rest; to set at one again. He said, in the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)
What if life is not peaceful for you right now and anxiety/worry is building? Paul tells us what to do in Philippians 4:4-9:
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me-put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Shalom, my friends! Hope to see you Sunday!!
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