Dr. Dan Hayden •
There are some experiences that surpass anything you have ever known. They are special times to be remembered. Surpasses – that’s our word for today.
How would you like to have an incredible peace in the midst of a troubling circumstance? In Philippians 4:6-7 Paul tells us how that can happen: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
So, there it is… you can know a peace which surpasses all comprehension by letting God take care of your troubles.
The word surpasses is an attempt to translate the Greek word hupareko, which is actually a compound word. It is the verb eko, which means “to have or hold,” and added to it is the preposition huper, which means “above and beyond.” It’s where we get the English word, “hyper.” Therefore, hupereko means “to have above and beyond anything else.” It is hyper-peace.
So, let’s apply this idea to what this verse says about the pace of God. Suppose you’re having a bad day. Everything is going wrong. There’s trouble all around. But instead of worrying, you’re strong and confident that God is going to get you through all of this. You’re concerned, but not worried (there is a difference). You’re dealing with it in a positive way because you’ve prayed and given it to God. So, what happens? Your friend looks at you and says, “Whoa – are you from outer space, or something? Anyone else would be falling apart right now!” Let’s face it – what you’re experiencing is not normal. Something supernatural is happening. You’re experiencing God’s peace, which surpasses all comprehension. It’s beyond anything you could ever imagine. Surpass – what a great word!
Hey – the peace of God will blow your ever-livin’ mind!