Today’s devotion is based on Come Home for Christmas Week 4 – PEACE (WATCH HERE)
Peace often speaks to a lack of conflict.
Peace treaties are sought between warring countries to bring an end to the atrocities of war. Peace is sought when a married couple is at odds and find themselves fighting over finances (or something else.) Peace is sought in life to find an end to those things that create fear, anxiety or uncertainty.
Much of the definition and experience of peace is determined by the circumstances around us. We believe that when our external circumstances change we can have peace.
Certainly peace defines external circumstances where there is lack of conflict. However, the heart of the peace that God gives is the peace that God gives us in our hearts. Jesus said, John 14:27 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.
The interesting thing about peace is that it is a gift from God. Jesus says that and the Lord says in Numbers 6:24–26 “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you… and give you peace.”
When God gives a gift, he gives something that blesses us. He puts our hearts at rest.
How so?
He reminds us that when we feel weak and out of control, he is strong and controls all for our good.
Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, 3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.
He promises that when external circumstances seem negative, he will work all for our good.
Genesis 50:19 But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.
He promises that when we are anxious about the future, he holds the future in his hands.
Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
The Lord invites us to expand our definition of peace from just a measurement of external circumstances to living in the goodness and grace of God which he gives to bring peace to our internal reality.
Reflection: Where are you experiencing a lack of peace today? Ask the Lord to bring peace through his power and promises to that area of your life and heart.
Prayer God of peace, teach us to desire the fullness of Your peace. Restore what is broken and draw us into the life You intend. Amen.