Let us always have the peace of God in our hearts despite what is going on around us. I know it’s been a tough fourteen months navigating through a global pandemic, and then there’s been an increase in violent crime as well as continued social justice tensions. Add to that now, escalating tensions and bloodshed in the Holy Land, and we have to ask, “How can we find peace?” Sure, we can begin by finding scriptural references, such as:
“Be still and know that I am God!” … Psalm 46:10
“Peace be still!” … Mark 4:39
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your
hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” … Philippians 4:7
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world
you will have tribulation. But take heart, I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
But let’s be even more practical and focus on the word: P – E – A – C – E
P – Prayer – pray to God and be at peace! Philippians 4:7 says “… peace … will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” … and … Isaiah 40:31 says “But those who hope in the Lord …”
E – Expectation – to have peace you must be expectant! With God, just expect Him to answer your prayer – He is able. When we are expectant, we should be hopeful because expectation brings hope.
A – Accept that we will have trials and tribulations as followers of Jesus. God didn’t promise that we will have a smooth ride, but He did promise to never leave us nor forsake us.
C – Commitment – peace demands commitment but not of this world. Being committed means that you will not doubt, and you will stay the path towards your goal – ultimately. Being committed means keeping your eyes on the mark.
E – Equipped, enabled, and empowered – Being equipped, enabled, and empowered means fellowshipping and attending church (even virtually), reading and meditating on the Word, and spending quiet time with God.
A word of caution – two of the greatest peace stealers in our lives may be our performance and the opinion of others … when we become so consumed about what other people say that it affects our pursuit towards perfection – Just saying!
Blessings,
John Meeuwissen
Alexandria District Lay Leader