The Amplified Bible states Isaiah 26:3, 4 like this, “You will keep in PERFECT AND CONSTANT PEACE the one whose mind is steadfast, that is, committed and focused on You, because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and expectation.] Trust confidently in the Lord forever [He is your fortress, your shield, your banner…]”
“Crossway articles” sums up Isaiah 26:3, 4 like this ->The peace described here is first the corporate peace of the city (Isaiah 26:1) and the nation (Isa. 26:2) that comes from the “hand of the Lord” (Isa. 25:10); but it is also the individual peace of the person whose mind is stayed [fixed, focused] on God. The source of such peace is the righteous, sovereign, saving God (Isa. 25:9) who “will swallow up death forever” and “will wipe away” every tear (Isa. 25:8 and Rev. 21:4) and who alone is worthy of our trust.
What a blessing to know that when our hearts, lives and eyes are fully focused on Jesus and Eternity, when we steadfastly direct our minds to Him and trust Him for HIS outcome in our circumstances, then his “perfect peace” will be our constant companion.
While the covid virus takes its toll in so many countries and an unfair war explodes close to us in Europe, it is very easy to become distressed and worried. But Jesus reminds us that He remains in control of earthly matters and His peace can invade and take over our hearts, minds, and lives if we trust implicitly in Him. Our Lord never promised us that we will not have hardships and difficulties on this earth, but He has promised that He will be with us to the end of time, that underneath us are His everlasting arms of love, supporting, protecting, and helping us through trials and tribulations.
Precious, gracious heavenly Father, thank You that You promise to be with us always, that no matter what we go through in this life, we can depend upon Your love and plans for our lives. Please help us to fix and concentrate our minds and lives on You and Your purposes for us. Help us to NOT condemn others who cause chaos and death in lives and nations, because You are the One who will avenge as needed, and condemning others robs us of our peace. Rather help us to be fervent and watchful in prayers, trusting You to bring about Your peace in Your perfect timing. Lord, we need revival and peace, not only in this troubled world, but also in our own lives. Help us Lord Jesus, to determinedly keep our hearts ‘stayed and fixed’ on You and You alone. Amen
Myrtle Turunen