The police used to be called peace officers. The term peace officer was coined back in the Wild West of the 1800s and was used up through the 1960s. At that point the term transitioned to “police” or “law enforcement officer”.

The name “peace officer” made it clear their main goal was to promote peace. And in the Wild West, that was no easy thing. People from all over the world were flocking to the “new” territory and trying to make their way in a hostile land. Managing the conflicting values, goals, and beliefs about the land, and how to live in it, was not for the faint of heart.

It may seem counter-intuitive but peace must be fought for.

“…Present your requests to God, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭6b‬-‭7‬, CSB)‬‬

In this life, we are under constant attack from many fronts. Our desires lead us into envy and shame. Our culture bombards us with fears and insecurities. And the devil loves to stir it all up with confusion and chaos. Peace seems elusive.

So I need to be on alert. I need to constantly fight for peace. How? By going to God with my shame, envy, fear, insecurity, and confusion. He is always ready to exchange all that for peace. He is the ultimate peace officer. When I trust Him to guard my heart and mind, I can live at peace in the wildest environment.

Dear God, thank you for being my peace officer and the only source of lasting peace in this wild world. Remind me not to worry but to bring my chaos to you. Please replace my fear with your solid peace today.