For sadness as intended by God produces a repentance that leads to salvation, leaving no regret, but worldly sadness brings about death.
2 Corinthians 7:10
At least 300 years before the Greek Stoic philosophers started teaching the principal of controlling your emotions and thoughts to find peace and happiness, something psychologists echo to this very day, the prophet Isaiah taught the principle first:
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
– Isaiah 26:3
The following line clarifies that the prophet is referring to trusting in God:
“Trust in the LORD forever, because GOD the LORD is the Rock eternal.”
– Isaiah 26:4
Isaiah’s message here is trust in God, keep your mind on the good virtues that God instructs us to develop within ourselves, and the result will be a life of perfect peace.
You are what you think
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
– Philippians 4:8
We are in control of the thoughts we create in our minds. We control what we dwell on and what we let go.
The concept for peace of mind is simple and it’s directly related to our thoughts and actions. Our actions are always preceded by our thoughts. Simply put: It’s cause and effect. To say it scripturally, referring to our actions bringing consequences – we reap what we sow.
If we treat everyone well and are friendly – we will make friends, not enemies.
The apostle Paul taught…
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”
– Romans 12:18
Scripture teaches us:
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”
– Hebrews 12:14
A peaceful mind will not only benefit us in this life, but in the eternal life to come. Jesussaid…
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
– Matthew 5:9
Forgiveness brings peace of mind
If we are continually angry, envious, greedy, holding grudges – that way of thinking will not bring us peace in life, but rather turmoil. It is often our own anger that brings us more grief than the actual event that insulted us.
Jesus said (trespasses meaning offenses):
“But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
– Matthew 6:15
It’s important to forgive others and not hold on to anger. Not only does forgiveness bring us our own peace of mind, but it follows God’s will for us.
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
– Ephesians 4:32
Isaiah’s prediction for the Prince of peace – Jesus
Isaiah predicted the birth of Jesus Christ, the Prince of peace, who will ultimately bring peace to the world.
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
– Isaiah 9:6