God's Design for MenNäide

Peaceful Men

“Stonewall” Jackson was a famous Confederate general during the American Civil War (1861-1865). He was a devout Christian who seemed to show complete fearlessness in battle.

He earned his nickname when a fellow general saw him standing calm and steady during a fierce battle, with bullets flying around him. The other general exclaimed, “Look at Jackson, standing like a stone wall!” amid the bedlam, and the nickname stuck.

Jackson was once asked about his peace during chaos, and he responded, “My religious beliefs teach me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time of my death. I do not concern myself with that, but to be always ready whenever it may overtake me. That is the way all men should live.”

Can you imagine walking in that level of peace in your life?

This world is chaotic; that is not an overly insightful thought. There are many things that men cannot control, and many things that rob us of peace.

But today’s verse calls us to “seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14 NIV). It is the mark of a godly man that we, too, would be “peaceful” in our hearts and actions.

This doesn’t mean pretending life isn’t stressful at times; it simply means that we know the One who stands above every worry, who isn’t worried about a thing, and who calls us to follow His example of trust (Matthew 6:25-34).

Jesus, the perfect Man, seemed to walk in perfect peace throughout His life, never fearing man, never fearing circumstances, and even steadfastly choosing to walk into His own death (John 12:23-25). Although there was much in life that could have robbed Him of peace, He could contentedly sleep through a deadly storm (Mark 4:35-41), or gently but firmly stand up to His critics (e.g., Matthew 21:23-27), knowing that His Father was in control of all things.

Men are at their best when they know that there is a peace that “surpasses understanding,” which actually guards our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:6-7). When our minds and hearts are at peace, our words and actions follow.

God’s design for men is that we would be ruled by peace, not anxious or fearful, not controlling or domineering, but at peace in our souls, at peace with God, and at peace with others. In a chaotic world, men like this stand out and demonstrate what it means to trust in God.

Prayer: Father, thank You that all my peace comes from You and knowing who You are. May Your peace guard my heart and mind, and may it radiate from me to this crazy world. Amen.

Reflection: What makes you feel “peaceful” in your life? Go and spend some time in that activity today, thanking God as you do!