Peace that Jesus Gives

Stress related illnesses are growing exponentially in societies throughout the world. New drugs are invented every year to reduce hyper-tension and blood pressure problems. While some illnesses are a normal part of life, millions are searching in vain for that elusive peace of mind to calm their nerves. Jesus said, "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)

Evangelist Billy Graham once indicated that the most effective gospel tract he wrote was entitled, "How to Have Peace With God." People are searching for peace in all kinds of ways, but will not find their rest until they find their peace from Jesus Christ living in their heart. Jesus calls everyone to come to Him for lasting peace. Jesus promised, "Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)

Only those who come to Jesus and share in doing His will are given the peace that passes human understanding. As we become consistently involved in doing His will, His responsibilities transform us. Our thinking, emotions and strength take on more of His image. Jesus wants us to remember that loving service is followed with peaceful thoughts. Isaiah wrote, "The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever." (Isaiah. 32:17)

No one can get peace if they are not willing to engage in consistent service for the Lord and His purposes. Jesus said, "My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to accomplish His work." (John 4:34). Jesus wants us to remember that only the Lord’s blessings give peace, not anything else. Many people seek after things that can only give temporary peace of mind. David wrote, "The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace." (Psalms. 29:11). People have no problem that God cannot solve. Jesus knows the great peace is found in loving and obeying the scripture. The writer of Psalm 119 writes, "Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble." (Psalms.119:165).

Jesus wants us to remember that He is our good Shepherd. David wrote, "The Lord is my shepherd, I will lack nothing. . . Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." (Psalms. 23:1, 6) Even when you are encountering various trials, the Lord wants to develop in you a completed peace, perseverance and perspective that come through the adversities of life’s experiences. Let the Lord develop in you a character of maturity that exhibits peace in all situations. You cannot know His peace unless you are willing to pass through the dark valley experiences with the faith to trust Him to work all things together for good. (Romans. 8:28, 29).