Peace

Peace

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.

John 16:33

Many people think of peace as being the absence of conflict, but Jesus taught a different kind of peace. He never claimed that we would experience peace only in times of quiet because as Christians, we live in a constant war zone. Our enemy, the devil, seeks to destroy us and undermine our faith, and as long as we are alive, we are not in a parade—we are in a battle.

The peace that Jesus offers us is found in him, as opposed to the tribulation that is found in the world. Romans 5:1 tells us, “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (NIV, italics mine). The peace that Jesus brings is a combination of hope, trust, and quiet in our minds and souls, which can be realized even when life experiences are not peaceful.

Peace, perfect peace, in this dark world of sin?

The blood of Jesus whispers peace within.

Peace, perfect peace, by thronging duties pressed?

To do the will of Jesus, this is rest.

Peace, perfect peace, with sorrows surging round?

On Jesus’ bosom naught but calm is found.

Peace, perfect peace, our future all unknown?

Jesus we know, and He is on the throne.

Peace, perfect peace, death shadowing us and ours?

Jesus has vanquished death and all its powers.

It is enough: earth’s struggles soon shall cease,

And Jesus, call us to heav’n’s perfect peace.^a

Father,

Thank you for the hope, trust, and peace that only you can bring to our hearts and minds as we depend on you. Amen.