The Peace of Christ

The following are a few thoughts that God has given to us, His family, through His Scriptures. His Word is what we as followers of Jesus Christ stand on and walk on as we navigate life in this broken world.

We know in the midst of darkness, the reality of the life of Jesus Christ shines the brightest. Did not Jesus ask us to shine the light of His presence during the darkest of times?

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” -Matthew 5:16

God’s perspective brings all Christians comfort when times don’t make much sense.

Corrie ten Boom noted that only Christ gives us hope: “If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. If you look at God you'll be at rest.”

Here is how we can look toward Christ:

• Pursue His presence: “... you will fill me with joy in your presence ... (Psalm 16:11).” 
• Proclaim His power: “‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me (Matthew 28:18).’”
• Praise Him for His promises: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).” This promise is not for all, but as the verse states, to all “who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” He certainly doesn’t say that all things are good.

Pursuing His presence, proclaiming His power, and praising Him for His promises will produce His peace.

Remember, less than 24 hours before He was rejected and beaten and placed on a cross, Jesus told His disciples, “‘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).’” Jesus’ peace is God-like peace. He knows the beginning to the end, and He is right on schedule.

Peace and hope go together. They both point us to joyful expectations that good will come because God is good.

I don’t know why all this is happening around the world, but as a member of God’s forever family like you, I know I can always trust the heart of God.

“God is too good to be unkind and He is too wise to be mistaken. And when we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart.” -Charles Spurgeon

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