A Different Kind Of Peace

Ruth

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

—John 14:27

I tiptoed out of our room, careful not to wake our youngest daughter who had joined us in the middle of the night. She has a keen sense for knowing when I get up. I’m not a morning person, but sometimes getting up early is about the only shot I have at some peace and quiet.

I made my coffee, planted myself in my favorite spot on the couch, grabbed my Bible and journal, and began to read. Things were quiet. Really quiet. And peaceful. But it lasted only about fifteen minutes! As soon as my peace had come, it quickly disappeared. Our kids were waking up. The dog needed go out. A new day was officially in front of me. This kind of peace is always fleeting, and it’s far from the kind of peace Jesus offers us.

Jesus gives us a different kind of peace. He tells us in John 14:27 that the peace He gives us is not like the world’s peace. The kind of peace the world offers comes and goes. That kind of peace or assurance is temporary, often tethered loosely to things like money, status, relationships, or health. Or a quiet cup of coffee before anyone else is awake!

No, the peace Jesus gives us is peace with God. It’s a deep and abiding sense that everything is okay, and is going to be okay, because of who we belong to.

I am God’s daughter. Saved and forgiven. I belong to His kingdom. And no matter what happens in life, God is with me.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid,” Jesus said in John 14:27. Jesus offers us a different kind of peace—a peace that goes beyond our understanding. A peace that guards our hearts and minds from fear or worry. A peace He gives when we ask for it.

Will you rest in it today?

Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus. Even though I was once Your enemy, You have made peace with me through the cross. The peace You give is assurance and hope. You have loved me and saved me. Nothing in life or death can separate me from You. Guard my heart and mind from fear and worry. Give me Your peace today. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Where do you most often look to find peace?

How is the peace that Jesus gives so different from the world’s?