After we landed on the theme of “Rest, Peace, & Contentment in Christ” for our upcoming women’s retreat in September, I began looking at Bible verses around this topic. There are so many great ones, but the one that keeps rolling around in my mind is John 14:27, where Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
This verse emphasizes that there is a difference between the peace found in the world and the peace Jesus offers. The world’s peace is often fragile, dependent on external circumstances, and easily disrupted by conflict or change. The peace that Jesus gives, however, is based on His unchanging love and promises. It is not unsettled by difficult circumstances; in fact, Jesus told us to expect them (John 16:33). But, rather, the steadfast love, protection, forgiveness, grace, provision, blessing, and eternal life He secured for all who place their trust in Him offers a steady and enduring calm that remains secure, even in the face of trouble.
When Jesus spoke the words of John 14:27 to His followers, He was preparing them for His departure. The disciples didn’t fully understand, but Jesus knew He would suffer, die, rise again, and then ascend to the Father, sending the Holy Spirit to be with us. He foresaw the confusion, fear, and sorrow His disciples would experience at his death, as well as the joy of His resurrection and the power of the coming Spirit. He knew they would suffer and that some would even die to share His message of salvation with the world; yet, there would be much hope and rejoicing in the midst of it. Knowing all the ups and downs to come, Jesus assured them of the secure peace they could find in Him—a peace not based on circumstances but on His constant presence with them through the Spirit and the gift of eternal life with Him because of His sacrifice.
As one prone to seek peace in my present circumstances, I am thankful for the reminder that the world around me and the feelings within me are unstable, and that any peace I try to find in them is easily disrupted. But the peace of God, rooted in the truth of my salvation, the presence of His Spirit within me, and the promise of my eternal future in heaven, is indeed different and unshakeable. My Savior gives peace to me, not as the world gives but oh so much better! I will lean on Him and let not my heart be troubled, neither will I be afraid.
By Katie Miller
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