"
What exactly does it take to have peace?
I've often thought if I could avoid financial crunches, peace would result.
Having enough to pay the monthly obligations with adequate left over for
investments, hobbies, entertainment, and savings. Surely I'd be at peace. A
trouble-free marriage would surely bring peace also. Both mates getting along,
never fighting, and having a couple of complacent kids to boot. What better
picture of tranquility? Of course, at this stage in my life, I'm looking for a
peaceful retirement. Not having to work until I die. Social Security not running
dry before I get the opportunity to draw out what I've invested during my
working career. Hoping it will be sufficient monthly to cover what expenses I'll
still have. Doing what I want when I want with no one to tell me differently.
Ah…the life. Peace.
While all of the above scenarios might bring peaceful circumstances, there's no
guarantee I would actually grasp serenity. Inner turmoil can still rage where
there is financial solidity, marital stability, and retirement security. Jesus
proposes a peace within such circumstances, but also apart from them. The above
is the type of peace the world promises. All things must be in place to
experience it. No troubles, trials, or stressors. Jesus' peace is radically
different. Some might classify it as odd.
Jesus' peace has nothing to do with circumstances and everything to do with
relationship and understanding. We were created for relationship with our
Creator. When sin severs that connection-which it does for every person born, we
are robbed of peace. We search for it-in financial security, relationships,
substances, entertainment-but never find it. Or if we think we have, we soon
discover it's only temporary. Soon, we'll want a different toy.
Jesus sends His Spirit to give us what no other play toys or circumstances can:
true and lasting peace. A soothing calmness in the face of danger, adversity,
and hostile situations. A peace unlike any the world can offer or understand. A
gentle reassurance that all things are in His hands-and we are too. A peace we
can't understand or even explain, but when we have it, we aren't troubled or
afraid. We know He is in control.
Let God give you this different type of peace.
Prayer: Father, thank You for giving a peace that pervades regardless of our
circumstances.
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
everyone to look towards Jesus as the source of all the solutions to our
problems. It contains a daily inspirational story, a Bible verse and encouraging
messages. HTML and plain text versions available.
The Nugget: Published three times a week, this newsletter features inspirational devotionals and mini-sermons dedicated to drawing mankind closer to each other and to Christ.