Daily Reading: John 14:25–31
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. (John 14:27)
God wants to give you real peace. Everyone wants it, and some think they have attained it. The quest for peace today includes titles, possessions, relationships, money, power, and amusements. All of these and more are included on the world’s list of what brings meaning and peace to a person’s life. The world’s peace is superficial. We think we can all get along by our own well-meaning efforts. Even with all of the world’s acquisitions that are supposed to bring happiness, trouble and brokenness will visit eventually. It’s not something we like to think or talk about, but it knocks on every door. So there has to be something that offers real, lasting contentment. If all of life’s stuff faded away, would you be at peace? If you have Jesus, you can live with eternal rest.
Keep in mind that Jesus’ peace does not guarantee the absence of trouble. Even He who is the creator and sustainer of eternal peace would endure excruciating physical, spiritual, and emotional trauma soon after He announced this gift of peace in this passage. The good news is that He has overcome all of our torment because He has overcome the entire world’s turbulence combined. Whether you are on a stormy sea or in an impossible situation, hang on to the reality Jesus offers to your life each and every day: Peace! Be still!
Accept Jesus’ offer of peace today.
Jim Dunn is the Executive Director of Church Multiplication and Discipleship for The Wesleyan Church.
