Peace On Earth
Peace. We are all seeking it...and even manage to navigate our lives in such a way that we can gather moments of it here and there. However it always seems to be fleeting and momentary - just when we think we have it, the car breaks down, or the kids fight or... a global pandemic. Yet when we read in Scripture we learn not only is peace not something we are responsible for, but rather something that is given freely to us. So why do we always seem to lack it?
JOHN 16:33
"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
"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."
Do you see the tension in this verse? We will live in a troubled world and will experience trouble because of it - however in the middle of our troubles we are still fully able to experience a peace that passes all understanding.
Peace and tribulation - in the same space of our lives - at the same time.
Peace and tribulation - in the same space of our lives - at the same time.
Can you think of a time in your life where despite the situation around you, you were at peace in your soul? Where for once you weren't searching for that one thing to make you complete - but that in Christ - you were made complete? What would it be like if every day of your life you could experience that all encompassing peace? How would your life be different? How would your reactions to world events, social media posts, and family struggles change - not because of what you have pieced together but because of the peace of Christ at work in you?
PHILIPPIANS 4:4-9
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
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