A Sound Mind
Bible in a Year: Isaiah 34-36; Colossians 2
You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you. Isaiah 26:3 nlt
Today's Scripture: Isaiah 26:3-7
Insight
The book of Isaiah can be divided into two major sections. In The Bible Knowledge Commentary, J. A. Martin writes, “Some have suggested that the book has two themes, one for chapters 1-39 and another for chapters 40-66. Judgment seems to be the emphasis in the first part, and salvation and comfort are prominent in the second.” That makes Isaiah 26 powerful, for it lies ensconced in the section of the book that deals primarily with judgment. Nevertheless, even when the focus is on judgment, God’s compassion for His people is displayed. Verse 3 says, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” No matter what season we’re in, God offers His undeniable peace to those whose hearts are focused on Him.
For further study, read: A World Wanting Peace
As a player for the San Francisco Giants baseball team, Drew Robinson knew mental highs and lows. Whenever injuries demoted him to the Giants’ minor league affiliate, he’d fall into a depressive state. Will I be replaced? Will I recover? At home, watching teammates playing on TV, “I just felt completely isolated, alienated and lonely.” After a suicide attempt during the pandemic, he shared his troubles with the Giants’ team psychologist. He got so much help he urged other players to come forth with their mental struggles. Now he’s the Giants’ full-time mental health advocate, urging physically tough players to seek strong mental health too. After surviving his worst, Robinson believes his purpose is to encourage others.
The Bible regards a sound mind as a wise goal but also a gift from a loving God. In song, the prophet Isaiah said of Him, “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” (26:3 nlt). What a consoling promise during a time of great trouble! Sin and rebellion had turned the hearts of God’s people away from Him, leaving their thoughts and minds in turmoil. So Isaiah urged them, “Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock” (v. 4 nlt).
During our anxious times, we too can trust God in our journey. Fixing our minds on Him points our trust to our daily peace—Jesus.
Reflect & Pray
Why does trusting God help us find peace? What worry can you give to Him today?
Please quiet my mental struggles, dear God, as I trust in You.