The sermon explores the biblical concept of peace as a fruit of the Spirit, distinguishing between objective justification and subjective inner rest. It emphasizes that this supernatural peace guards believers against anxiety and fear through trust in Christ rather than circumstances. The preacher highlights Paul's suffering as evidence that divine peace is accessible even amidst profound trials. Key to maintaining this peace is casting all cares upon God through honest prayer and thanksgiving. Ultimately, the message asserts that true rest is found only in Jesus Christ, who reigns supreme over the heart.

Theme: Paul exhorts the believers to win the prize. I. Expectation A. An incorruptible prize 1. The athletes competed for a perishable crown 2. But, Christians are after a crown of glory B. "not as uncertainly" 1. We can be certain of the rules 2. We can be certain of the obtaining Overview A. If Olympic (or Isthmian) athletes took so much pain to be the best and win a prize of fading glory, why should we not strive for mastery in the race of life? B. How foolish indeed for us not to compete with all we have! C. This expectation cannot be achieved apart from perseverance and self-control Application A. Run the race with a view to the prize 1. It is an incorruptible crown 2. It is therefore an eternal crown 3. Do not get distracted from the finish line B. Run the race by looking to Jesus 1. He is the author and finisher of our faith 2. He gives us the power and ability to run the race of life 3. He does so because He ran the race to which He was called a. He did not shrink back from the necessary exertion b. He never lost sight of the goal and the victory (1) John 17 (2) Hebrews 12:2

God personally entrusts all mankind with specific responsibilities, expecting not mere preservation but fruitful effort that reflects his worth. In the Parable of the Talents the first two servants model faithful stewardship by acting immediately and multiplying what the master gave, while the third servant's fear, laziness, and excuses expose a heart uninterested in serving God. Because Christ will certainly return as Judge—rewarding the faithful and condemning the false we must each live with the sober awareness that our works reveal whom we truly belong to.

John 4:27-45

The fruit of faith is the life that flows from the controlling influence of certain beliefs.

MAIN POINT: Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity Psalm 133:1