“God’s peace . . more wonderful than the human mind can understand.” Philippians 4:7 NLT
“If Jesus is there where you are, then you can be safe where He is.”
My thoughts today are about “constant care.”
What would “real peace” look like to you? That’s good to know, because there will be a lot of times that trouble your mind and emotions, leaving you struggling to have peace. Usually your mental picture is colored by the synonyms for the word that come to your mind, like – calm, quiet, stillness, tranquil, serene – but are those a true picture of peace?
Do those words accurately reflect the source of peace, or maybe as I think, they are merely the by-products of peace? Is the enjoyment of peace restricted for the rare moments when a few are fortunate enough to be carefree and without problems? Would those altogether brief, calm and serene moments even be the times peace would be most needed or valued?
The Bible teaches that peace is not the product of perfect or pleasant circumstances, nor the absence of problems. Peace is a gift from God when you trust in Him, whatever your present situation. Why would God provide something so precious only to those who need it the least, and at the time it would make the least difference? “My peace I give to you, not as the world gives . . “ John 14:27. Nor can the world take His peace from you. There is a peace that the world’s cares, pressures, fears, and problems cannot take away from you; it resides deep inside you, endures through every adversity, and accompanies you along every path.
I remember well a few years ago, when I faced the most distressing season of church life that I had ever known; yet the Lord gave me a greater sense of His nearness and protection, a clearer and more certain picture of my future, and an abiding inner peace that was at odds with the circumstances. I was aware of the moment’s realities, not ignoring the uncertainties of that season, and my humanity occasionally struggled with moments when peace seemed unlikely or illogical. In the worst of times I found the best of God’s grace and enduring peace.
The disciples learned that however severe the storm, Jesus remains the Master of the moment and you can rest assured in Him. Joseph found peace in captivity. Daniel felt peace in a lion’s den. The three Hebrews were protected by peace in a fiery furnace. Peter slept in peace in a prison awaiting death. Paul wrote of peace while confined in Roman shackles. John had peace though exiled on a prison island.
Where can you be, and what can you experience, that will ever be apart from the faithfulness, power, and nearness of Jesus, the Prince of Peace? “Now the Lord of peace give you peace always by all means.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16. You can experience an assurance of safety in His arms, a growing faith and character in difficult times, and how to stand fast on His promise that, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:20. If Jesus is there where you are, then you can be safe where He is.
My prayer for you today is that you will be safe and sure in God’s care.