“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
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’m so worried.” “I am stressed out.” “I’m so unhappy.” “I’m afraid.”
Why are Christians not in the least embarrassed over the absence of peace and rest in their lives? Too many have adopted the world’s thinking that they must find their peace in the world instead of Jesus. They think if they can just get on that long overdue vacation then they will be just fine. Or maybe if they just lived somewhere else where it didn’t rain so much, or it wasn’t so hot, then they would be happy. Or maybe they just need a different job, or a different family! Others try to keep their lives busy with activities so they won’t notice the emptiness in their hearts.
Jesus gives us the formula for peace and points out where we often go wrong. He states that our peace is in Him. Jesus warns us that we will have trouble in this world; so why are we so surprised when we do? The kind of peace Jesus gives us is different from the peace the world gives. The world gives a temporary peace that can be destroyed by going home from vacation, or moving, or even staying busy. Jesus’ peace is not dependent on a location, a state of mind, an activity, or a circumstance because it comes from Him. He says, “My peace I give you.” That means if Jesus gives you His peace, there is not one person and not one thing that can take it away. Why? Because He has overcome the world. His peace is the only true peace.
Are you content right where you are? Or do you feel that you need to be somewhere else to experience peace? Are you too busy to sit and spend time with God? What is the source of your peace? Take a moment ask God to give you His peace in the midst of your circumstances. Take a moment to look up the following verses and see Who is the source of peace and what it can do for you.
Isaiah 26:3-4
Philippians 4:6-7
Colossians 3:15