What does it mean that God will “keep in perfect peace” in Isaiah 26:3?

Answer  
  

Isaiah 26:3 states, “You keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” This is a wonderful verse about the assurance of [God’s peace](peace-of-God.html) for those who trust in Him. To understand what it means that God will “keep in perfect peace,” we should examine the nature of God’s peace, the conditions upon which He provides it to us, and passages related to Isaiah 26:3\.  
  

The promise to “keep in perfect peace” suggests an extraordinary—a perfect—kind of peace. The original Hebrew text uses the phrase  *[shalom](Shalom-meaning.html), shalom*, a doubling that amplifies the fullness of God’s peace. Perfect peace is not the absence of conflict but an all\-encompassing sense of security. In Philippians 4:7, Paul describes “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” and how it “will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (ESV). Perfect peace will always keep our hearts and minds anchored in Christ.  
  

To be kept in perfect peace, our minds must be “steadfast” (Isaiah 26:3\). A steadfast mind is unwavering and firmly fixed on God’s promises. In Isaiah 26:3, the word *mind* refers to our thoughts, inclinations, and desires. We must choose to focus on the truth of God’s Word instead of our circumstances. When we set our minds on God’s Word, we experience life and peace: “To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace” (Romans 8:6, ESV). To have perfect peace, then, we must keep in step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:25\).  
  

Trust in God is a requisite part of perfect peace. This is more than believing that God exists; we must also trust in His promises. Proverbs 3:5–6 encourages us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (ESV). We must surrender our worries, fears, and anxieties to God, believing that He is willing and able to provide perfect peace. This is a daily decision on our part.  
  

God’s promise to keep us in perfect peace is not based on external circumstances. It is a promise that remains rock solid despite the crashing waves of life. Jesus told His disciples in John 16:33, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (ESV). The finished work of Jesus on the cross is the basis of our perfect peace.  
  

Perfect peace is also connected to righteousness. Isaiah 32:17 declares, “The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever” (ESV). The imputed righteousness of Christ produces peace as its natural outcome. When we live in accordance with God’s righteousness, His peace will fill our minds, souls, and hearts.  
  

Being kept in perfect peace involves God’s active presence in our lives. In Psalm 23:4, David says, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (ESV). God’s presence provides peace, comfort, and security, and His continual presence is a key component of the perfect peace promised in Isaiah 26:3\.  
  

