Meaning:
The quote "Peace is the umpire for doing the will of God" by Edwin Cole encapsulates the idea that inner peace serves as a guiding force in discerning and carrying out the divine purpose. Edwin Cole, a renowned author and speaker, was a prominent figure in the Christian men's movement, known for his teachings on leadership, manhood, and personal development. His quote reflects a fundamental principle in Christian theology and spirituality, emphasizing the importance of inner peace as a means of aligning oneself with the will of God.
In the context of the quote, the term "umpire" is particularly significant. An umpire is a neutral and authoritative figure in sports who ensures that the game is played fairly and in accordance with the rules. Similarly, peace is portrayed as the umpire in our lives, helping us to navigate through decisions, conflicts, and challenges by providing a sense of clarity, harmony, and alignment with God's intentions. This notion underscores the idea that peace serves as a reliable indicator of whether our actions and choices are in harmony with the divine will.
The concept of peace as an indicator of divine guidance is deeply rooted in Christian teachings. In the Bible, particularly in the New Testament, the idea of inner peace as a sign of God's presence and guidance is recurrent. For instance, the apostle Paul wrote about the peace of God that surpasses all understanding and guards our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7). This peace is seen as a guiding force that directs believers towards God's will and purpose for their lives.
From a practical standpoint, the quote by Edwin Cole encourages individuals to seek and prioritize inner peace as they navigate life's complexities and make decisions. When faced with difficult choices or dilemmas, the presence or absence of peace within one's heart and mind can serve as a valuable indicator of whether a particular course of action is in alignment with God's will. This perspective underscores the importance of cultivating a deep sense of inner peace through prayer, meditation, and spiritual practices in order to discern and fulfill God's purpose.
Furthermore, the quote also suggests that peace is not merely a passive state, but an active guide for discerning and carrying out the will of God. It implies that peace empowers individuals to make decisions with confidence, knowing that they are in harmony with God's intentions. By prioritizing inner peace and seeking to maintain it in the midst of life's challenges, individuals can position themselves to be more receptive to divine guidance and to act in accordance with God's will.
In summary, Edwin Cole's quote "Peace is the umpire for doing the will of God" encapsulates the idea that inner peace serves as a guiding force in discerning and carrying out the divine purpose. This concept aligns with Christian teachings that emphasize the significance of inner peace as an indicator of divine guidance. The quote underscores the importance of prioritizing inner peace and seeking to maintain it as a means of aligning oneself with God's will and purpose.