True and Lasting Peace
Many of us today are seeking peace. Although we may not directly identify what we’re seeking as peace, that’s ultimately what we long for. We may pursue peace through organizing and decluttering our homes in an effort to create a more serene living space. We might try to quiet the never-ending chatter in our brains or turn off our anxious thoughts by watching a movie or mindlessly scrolling through social media. We may seek peace through financial security, believing that more money in our savings or investments will bring a sense of calm and security.
Although pursuing things like a tidy home or financial security isn’t bad in and of itself, we need to recognize where true and lasting peace comes from. Judges 6:24 says, “Then Gideon built an altar there to the Lord and named it The Lord is Peace. To this day it is still in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.” We see from this verse that the Lord Himself is peace.
Before Jesus’ ascension into heaven, He reassured His disciples with these words, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful” (John 14:27). The peace that Jesus promised was not just for the disciples, but for all followers of Christ. Jesus knew we would face troubles and trials in this life, but in the midst of those struggles, He offers us a spiritual peace that surpasses understanding and is unlike anything the world can offer. We can be encouraged knowing that we don’t need to be tossed around by the cares, worries, and trials of this world. Instead, we can set our minds on Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Romans 8:6 says, “For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.”
In addition to setting our minds on the Spirit, we can recall and apply the words of Philippians 4:6-7 if we notice worry or anxiety creeping in. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Lord, we thank you for the PEACE that only You can provide. You knew that we would face troubles and trials in this life, but we are grateful that You quiet our hearts and minds with Your Peace in those times. Help us to set our minds on You and look to You in all circumstances.
Although the holidays are often a joyous time spent with loved ones, they can also be a difficult and painful season for those facing challenging life circumstances, such as the recent loss of a loved one or illness. If you find yourself in such a season, here are some encouraging resources: Experiencing Grace and Peace in Cultural Chaos, Prayers of My Heart, From My Heart Poems of Faith, The Plan A Woman in a Plan B World.
