God's Peace

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.  (Jn. 14:27)

As the year 2010 begins, I am reminded that our world is desperately in need of God's peace. How can we experience true peace in our lives? Scripture tells us that it is the Lord who blesses us with peace (Num. 6:24-26). In fact, He is our peace (Is. 9:2-7; Eph. 2:14-18). Philippians 4:7 reveals that His peace goes way beyond our understanding as it guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. In John 14:27 Jesus told his disciples that the peace He gives is not like the peace of this world. When we experience His peace in our lives, it produces the following:

Patience with the process of life Encouragement in the midst of difficulties Accord with others around us Calmness in our hearts and minds Evidence that Christ is the center of our lives

So, what gives you peace in your life? Is it conditional based upon the world's standards or are you open to His peace? My prayer is that you will seek His peace as this new year begins and that you will find your solace in Him!