Peace that Passes All Understanding

Jesus speaking to His disciples said, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). As I write these words my earthly Father lays upon his death bed. For the last week (Thanksgiving week) our family has rallied by his bedside and cried, prayed, ministered, remembered, laughed, and waited. Like all families that walk this road it has been difficult and exhausting in many respects. Yet, we have seen Christ settle us and grant us peace, when we chose to walk in it. This precious peace that is available to the believer is not like the peace that is offered by the world. The peace the world has to offer is temporal and based on things that change; it’s like shifting sand. But the peace of God is based on the truth that our God is unchanging and the peace He offers is established by His unchanging nature and character. This peace is based on the fact that He has overcome the world through His righteous life, His vicarious death, and glorious resurrection from the dead. He has established a peace that is always available to us in a troubled and broken world. We can stand     resolute in His peace when everything around is turned upside down and on fire. Therefore, we can have a heart that is not troubled when trouble comes, and be unafraid when fearful times set upon us. Psalm 46 says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in a time of trouble. Therefore, we will not fear. Even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea . . . Be still and know that I am God.” To be still in tragic moments and to settle your thoughts and heart on God’s truths is to, “be still and know He is God.” Also, the Apostle Paul admonishes us, in the book of Philippians, to avail ourselves of this truth when he said, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and          supplication, with thanksgiving, let your request be made known to God; and the peace of God, which      surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” The peace of God brings a quietness to our minds and calms our anxieties, doubts, and fears. The heavenly peace God offers will strengthen our relationships with each other and always allow us to rest well when we need it. In the little town of Bethlehem, the Prince of Peace was born to save the world from their sins. And in the book of Isaiah it was prophesied of His coming, “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the      government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Thank you Lord for your peace!

Serving the King Together,

Eric