Isaiah 26:3

NASB	NLT	VOICE
3 The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, Because he trusts in You.	3 You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!	3 You will keep the peace, a perfect peace, for all who trust in You, for those who dedicate their hearts and minds to You.

What is “Perfect Peace”?

The concept of perfect in Hebrew is a repetitive phrase, “Shalom shalom.” This shows true completeness and absolute peace. It’s not about the absence of conflict, but a divine sense of well-being and wholeness. It comes from our relationship with God and how he is present in our lives. The “steadfast of mind” describes someone whose thoughts and intentions are firmly fixed on God. “Steadfast” in Hebrew can describe someone who is leaning or resting on God. Overall, it’s a mental and spiritual discipline. It’s training our hearts to be undivided and fully committed to God. How we trust in God will show how we will experience His peace. Trusting in God is an ongoing act, shown through strength and security. Isaiah describes a time of political turmoil and uncertainty, which is why the call to trust God is so important. This trust is fully revealed in who Jesus is, the embodiment of peace.

The Weight Lifted

True peace comes from God alone. It’s not dependent upon our circumstances. I’ve learned that the peace from God comes from a place where I need to trust his justice, truth, and mercy will be shown to the masses. It’s a time where I can be heavily affected and weighted by what’s going on around me, and I need God to take control of the situation. When He takes control, it truly feels like a weight being lifted. For me, it was like a new sense of clarity was granted. I was able to stay grounded in what he called me to do. It was a blessing to realize those situations no longer belong to me – they were His to handle. I was going to be involved, but only to the extent God would need me to be involved. If it didn’t involve me, it didn’t need me. What a way to preserve the energy that God provides so that I can go continue the things that he calls me to do. 

Reflection Questions

1. What has been troubling you lately and have you brought it to God? 
2. Have you ever felt a time when God was in control and you got to experience true peace?
3. Where do you need to let go today? 

Call to Action

Set aside five minutes in silence. Breathe deeply. Pray Isaiah 26:3 over your life, your mind, and your situation. Name what is holding you down and release it. 

Next slice of manna: Manna for the Mind #262