Juicy Fruit of the Spirit #3: Peace!

I find it interesting that many times after Jesus healed someone, He told them to "Go in Peace." I looked up the definition of peace on dictionary.com and there were 12 variations, including a state of tranquility or serenity; freedom of the mind from annoyance, distraction, anxiety, obsession, etc.; freedom from strife or dissention; harmony with people; silence or stillness; maintaining order; non-war.

Dear Lord, we pray that Joshua would grow up to be a man of peace. We pray that if at all possible, as far as it depends on him, he would live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18). Since the fruit of righteousness is peace (Isaiah 32:17), we declare today that Joshua will lead a righteous life. We ask that the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard his heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Phillipians 4:7). We thank you that we don't have to be troubled or afraid since You have left your peace with us (John 14:27). We also thank you that you have given us the Bible so that we may have peace and so that we can learn that while we will have trouble in this world, You have overcome the world (John 16:33)! We thank you that You have given us the ability to demonstrate peace in the midst of trials since You have given us the gift of peace and have shown us the perfect way.

We also ask that you would show us how to discipline Joshua to produce peace in his life since you've shown us in Hebrews 12:11 that "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." Please help us encourage Joshua to grow up peacefully. Finally, we thank you that you said "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9) We praise you that Joshua is Your son and that You are the one that is perfecting peace in his life. We ask that you show us how to best help him, and we leave the rest to Your faithful and capable hands. We thank you for his life, his health, his safety, his intelligence, his skills & abilities, and his character! In Jesus' powerful name, AMEN!

Happy Birthday to Joshua's Great Grandma Good! We're looking forward to seeing you Friday night for dinner!