It is not very difficult to realize that we are living in a rapidly changing world. Millions of people have lost the true purpose of life, and have been caught-up in the “rat race” of living to please self, and others. Spiritual frustration and confusion are seen everywhere. There is no peace of God in their hearts! It is a sad thing when Christians also get caught-up in that selfish life-style. We need to be reminded that the Christian Way is a very different way to that of the world. The Christian Way pursues the “abundant life” that Jesus came to give us (John 10:10 ). The Christian Way is the way of peace, the peace of God. That peace comes through our knowing our sins are forgiven (in the here and now). That peace comes through accepting the grace of God, and knowing that our past failings do not have to be ever before us (we can put the past behind us)! That peace comes to us through our knowing Jesus Christ as our Personal Lord and Saviour. Eternal life is the knowing of these things (John 17:3 ).
It is God’s abiding peace in our hearts that causes us to know right from wrong. It is “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,” and which “guards our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7 , NKJV).
It is our Christian duty to always make sure we live our lives in the realm of the peace of God ~ especially in the area of guidance. Far too many rush ahead in their decision making, instead of waiting for the evidence of God’s peace ~ and then wonder why things turn out negatively further down the track.
God’s peace is like an umpire. In any sporting fixture the umpire holds the power of decision; if he says you are out, you are out!God’s peace needs to be heeded, because He sees all the way ahead, and we don’t! God’s peace always goes with His will. Jesus desires us to always have His peace to lead and guide our lives, and to keep us in the way He has chosen for us. No wonder He declared to us: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27 ). “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 ).
The Word of Jesus, when we receive it, speaks peace into our hearts! Through that same peace-giving Word we can receive specific and clear guidance to enable us to do the will of God ~ and to do it in such a way that we glorify His Name. If we make a decision without the peace of God, then that decision is more than likely to be wrong. It will cause regret in the days ahead. But when we wait for the peace of God (and we do need to learn patience), then we will see the wonderful outworking of God’s Promises in our lives, and a fruitfulness that can come no other way. God’s peace followed and obeyed, enables God to work on our behalf, change circumstances, remove obstacles, provide the right people ~ and the monetary provision as well. This is the way God wants us to live: under the control and guidance of His wonderful peace.
Today, right now . . . Let the Lord Jesus Christ speak to your heart the Word of peace. Let that peace calm the frustration, confusion and turmoil that modern living seeks to pull you down with. Breath it in! Drink of that peace! Lap it up! Just as Jesus calmed the troubled sea with “Peace, be still” (Mark 4:39 ), so today He will calm your doubts and fears as you open your life to Him. Receive His Word of peace for whatever troubles you. Trust Jesus, dear Friend, for “He cares for YOU!” (1 Peter 5:7 ).
Scripture Reading – Lk. 24:36-45 1. How do we receive the peace of God?
He Himself stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be to you.” (Lk. 24:36) “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1) “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” (John 14:27)
What are the things that steal the peace of God?
1. Fears. “But they were startled and frightened and thought they were seeing a spirit.” (Lk. 24:37)
2. Doubts. “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts?” (Lk. 24:38)
3. It’s too good to be true. “While they still could not believe it because of their joy and amazement…” (Lk. 24:41)
What are the things that produce the peace of God? Seeing the evidence. (Lk. 24:39-43) See the clear fulfillment of prophecy. (Lk. 24:44-45)
Application: 1. What is keeping you from experiencing God’s peace right now? 2. What are some things you can do this week to increase your faith which will increase your peace? (Rom. 10:17) 3. Thank the Lord for the supernatural peace that Jesus gives to us today.
