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The word rule comes from the language of athletics: Paul tells us to let Christ’s peace be umpire or referee in our heart. Our heart is the center of conflict because there our feelings and desires clash---our fears and hopes, distrust and trust, jealousy and love. How can we deal with these constant conflicts and love as God wants? Paul explains that we must decide between conflicting elements by using the rule of peace. Which choice will promote peace in our souls and in our churches? For more on the peace of Christ, see Philippians 4:7.