When we think about peace, we often picture a serene landscape, a quiet moment, or a calm demeanor. The peace that God offers us is not dependent on our circumstances. It’s not about the absence of trouble, but the presence of Christ. It’s about trusting in God’s sovereignty, even when life is chaotic and uncertain.
During our trials and tribulations, we can experience God’s peace. It’s a peace that doesn’t make sense to the world. It’s a peace that transcends human understanding. It’s a peace that guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
When we’re anxious, we’re told to pray and present our requests to God. This should be done with thanksgiving, because thanksgiving is an expression of trust. It’s a way of saying, “God, I believe that you’re in control.
In John 14:27, Jesus tells His disciples, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” This is a powerful promise. Jesus is saying, “I’m leaving you with my peace.” It’s a gift. It’s yours to keep. It’s not like the peace that the world offers. It’s different, it’s lasting.
This peace is not dependent on our circumstances. It’s not about the absence of trouble, but the presence of Christ. It’s not about the absence of fear, but the presence of faith. It’s not about the absence of doubt, but the presence of trust.
How do we perceive peace in all circumstances? How do we experience this peace that transcends understanding, this peace that guards our hearts and minds, this peace that rules in our hearts, this peace that Jesus gives us?
We pray. We bring our anxieties, our worries, our fears before God. We let the peace of Christ rule in or hearts. We choose to let His peace govern our thoughts, emotions, our actions, to live in harmony with one another and demonstrate His peace and love to the world.
This is how we perceive the peace of God that transcends all understanding.
May the Holy Spirit enrich our lives and give us that peace always.
Title: Peace I Leave with You!; Date: 20th century; Object/Function: Mural; City/Town: Hamilton; Country: New Zealand; Scripture: John 14:23-29. Notes: Tile from Peace Wall in Hamilton, New Zealand. Permalink: https://diglib.library.vanderbilt.edu/act-imagelink.pl?RC=55274. (Use this link to refer back to this image.)
