No, I'm sorry, I won't go into all the details, but for future reference it was "relational" to say the least.... but the reason why I'm bringing it up is because just before the discussion began I had spent some quality time in prayer. Having lifted both thanksgiving and requests to God, I had experienced God's peace in my heart and mind milliseconds before the conversation began.
In addition to the peace I was experiencing, the discussion topic which my friend and I were conversing about, had literally been lifted up in my prayers a few moments prior. It's cool how God works things out and prepares us for these kinds of moments; mostly when we are 'sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit'. Only then can we truly have peace about whatever comes our way.
I've been reading a book by John MacArthur called "Found: God's Peace"; its subtitle notes "experiencing true freedom from anxiety in every circumstance". (Yes, please.) On page 56, John MacArthur says that peace fabricated by humans cannot withstand anything the world throws at it:
"Godly peace cannot be produced on a human level at all. Any peace that humans can produce is very fragile. It can be destroyed instantly by failure, doubt, fear, difficulty, guilt, shame, distress, regret, sorrow, the anxiety of making the wrong choice, the anticipation of being mistreated or victimized by someone, the uncertainly of the future, and any challenge to our position or possessions..."
Peace is an attribute of God.... actually, just as God is love. God is also peace.
“Now may the Lord of peace himself
give you peace at all times in every way.
The Lord be with you all.”
2 Thessalonians 3:16 ESV
Peace is also part of the fruit of the Spirit:
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
longsuffering [patience], kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
Galatians 5:22-23a NKJV
Near the end of the heated discussion, I recall my friend saying, "I'm amazed at how you're able to respond to me so calmly right now". It was definitely the peace of God ruling my heart and mind in those moments. And I'm grateful.
"But above all these things put on love,
which is the bond of perfection.
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts,
to which you were called in one body;
and be thankful."
Colossians 3:14-15 NKJV
Ultimately, Godly peace has nothing to do with human beings or human circumstances. Godly peace comes from God Himself. And even though the discussion with my friend has since passed, it's an amazing thought to know I can continue to lift up the request to God, and He will gently remind me that He had, has, and will have, everything in His control.
And just over a year and a half later, we were wed.
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