Edwin Louis Cole: 'Peace is the umpire for doing the will of God.'

Peace is the umpire for doing the will of God.

The quote by Edwin Louis Cole, 'Peace is the umpire for doing the will of God,' highlights the significance of inner peace in guiding our actions and decision-making. Essentially, this quote suggests that when we are at peace within ourselves, we are better able to discern and align ourselves with God's purpose for our lives. It emphasizes the idea that peace serves as an "umpire" or a referee, impartially judging and guiding our choices in accordance with God's will.Peace, in this context, refers not only to the absence of conflict or turmoil in our external environment but also to a state of tranquility and harmony within our hearts and minds. When we attain inner peace, we cultivate a sense of clarity and serenity that enables us to navigate life's challenges and dilemmas with wisdom and integrity.The importance of this quote lies in its ability to offer guidance and direction to individuals seeking to live a purposeful and meaningful life. It suggests that by prioritizing inner peace, we can establish a strong connection with our spiritual selves and develop a deeper understanding of the path that aligns with God's plan for us. In essence, peace becomes the guiding principle, the moral compass that leads us as we navigate the complexities of life.However, beyond the straightforward interpretation of this quote, we can explore an unexpected philosophical concept to add intrigue to the discussion. Let us delve into the contrasting ideas of peace: inner peace and external peace.Inner peace is often regarded as a state of personal contentment and tranquility. It involves finding balance within ourselves, embracing self-acceptance, and achieving a sense of harmony with our thoughts, emotions, and desires. Inner peace empowers us to recognize and align with our authentic selves, thereby enabling us to make decisions that are in accordance with our values and the will of God.On the other hand, external peace refers to the absence of conflict, violence, or disturbance in the world around us. It pertains to creating a harmonious and cooperative society, where individuals interact with compassion, respect, and justice. External peace is often associated with efforts to resolve conflicts and establish social equity, fostering an environment conducive to collective well-being.While inner peace and external peace seem distinct, both are interconnected and mutually reinforcing. Inner peace serves as the foundation for external peace; only when individuals are at peace within themselves can they contribute positively to the creation of a peaceful society. Conversely, external peace provides the necessary conditions for individuals to cultivate and maintain inner peace.In the context of doing the will of God, inner peace acts as the umpire, guiding our actions and choices to align with His purpose for us. It allows us to discern between impulsive desires and selfless intentions, helping us determine the path that brings about spiritual growth, fulfillment, and service to others. External peace, on the other hand, is the manifestation of our collective commitment to do God's will, creating a world that is grounded in love, justice, and compassion.In conclusion, Edwin Louis Cole's quote emphasizes the crucial role of peace as the umpire for doing the will of God. Inner peace is essential in guiding our actions and choices, ensuring that they align with His purpose for our lives. Simultaneously, external peace complements and strengthens our individual pursuits of inner peace by establishing the necessary conditions for a harmonious and cooperative society. Together, these facets of peace propel us towards a life driven by purpose, spiritual growth, and the fulfillment of God's will.