I’ve been facing some considerable challenges recently, and I doubt that I am alone. Perhaps you are facing some kind of difficulty, heartache or fear-fuelling scenario too.
Peace.
Such a soft, alluring word – but potentially evasive when challenges threaten to overwhelm. So how do we go about experiencing Jesus’ promised peace? Well, as many have said in some shape or form: Peace is not the absence of trouble, but knowing God with us in it; it is the fruit of the Holy Spirit, of God’s presence within us.
Whatever trouble, heartache or fear you face this month, dwell with this precious promise from Jesus.
Peace: freedom from worry; a quietness & rest of soul; a calm, assured poise.
I leave with you: peace was Jesus’ parting gift…
I give you: and peace is Jesus’ daily gift to all who’ve received His indwelling presence.
It’s a peace that Jesus births within us; a peace that will grow in our experience as we actively believe in His presence, focus on His truth, listen to His voice and follow His leading, rather than entertaining the babble of opinions, doubts, expectations, demands, fallacies, falsehoods, threats … you fill in the blank … representing the voice that attempts to rob you of His peace.
We thank God for days that are free of strife, but these ‘peaceful’ days that the world gives are inevitably shortlived. Ultimately, only Jesus can give us substantial, enduring peace; a peace that prevails despite our situations and surpasses our understanding.
We were not left alone in our place of turmoil and distress or at the mercy of a cruel world. We have the promises and perspective of His life – His peace – to dispel fear and walk with us through our days.
What might you feel especially prompted to dwell with and respond to from this promise, and the part we play in receiving it though active belief, focus on truth, listening to His voice and following His lead?