Peace is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of Christ in us.
When we feel worried or overwhelmed, we can always turn to Christ, who gives us peace as we abide in him, through his Holy Spirit.
True peace isn't found by simply having no problems or difficulties in life, but rather by experiencing the presence of Jesus Christ within you, as you face life's challenges.
The Holy Spirit's presence and role, provides calmness and serenity, even amidst challenges. I have learned to accept those challenges that come to us in life, because I see that they are never there to hurt me, but to help me. I can see that I have a God who is greater than any challenge I might face, at any given time.
He is bigger than any problem we might have. I know I can always turn to him in prayer, for comfort and peace. I have learned to be both grateful and appreciative of those challenges, as they alert me that I may have unknowingly, drifted away from him. They alerted me to what's important in this life, and what needs changing or adjusting, so I can live a much healthier, happier, and productive life in Christ.
The "peace" mentioned here, is not about an external lack of conflict, but a deep inner peace that comes from a personal connection with Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, when we invite Jesus into our hearts and lives as Savior. No other source can provide that.
Even when life throws difficulties your way, having Christ present in your life, allows you to navigate them with peace, confidence and strength from our Lord.
I was looking up some of my favorite verses on peace, and one of my all time favorites is John 14:27 KJV. In this verse Jesus says……
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
It is a peace that passes all understanding, and I remember it well, when I attended my mother and father's funeral. I felt the presence and peace of the Holy Spirit like never before. It was a sweet peace and comforting presence, knowing where my mother and father had gone, as they had confessed Christ as Savior in their lives. I knew I would see them again. You really can't beat that. It's just not wishful thinking, but the solid, unwavering and everlasting promise of Jesus Christ, himself.
When I think about how Jesus spoke the words of that verse just hours before He was beaten and crucified- it brings me to tears. To think that He was so concerned for the peace and joy and faith of His followers, is absolutely precious. Instead of worrying about himself, His focus was on us. Even upon the cross.
These words are a reminder, that the only way for us to get peace - true peace - is through Him. A peace that comes from looking up and turning to Him. A peace that is not circumstantial, because He promises it in the middle of trouble. His peace is a promise that is true on the best of your days and on the worst of your days. Peace is not the absence of trouble. It is the presence of Christ in the midst of that trouble.
My prayer today is that no matter what you are facing, His peace, peace that can ONLY come from Him, would flood your mind and your heart.
Thank you my beautiful Jesus, for all you are and all you have done for us.