John 14:27 says: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
No doubt there are friends and neighbors who really would like to know how you as a believer can be so calm and assured as you face the same kinds of things that so recently crushed them. Your secret lies in the truth of this verse of scripture. The peace believers experience is not really their peace. It is God’s personal peace predicated on His own strength, wisdom, and character. Just think about it. As He sits there on Heaven’s mighty throne, what is there that could throw Him into an emotional tailspin? Is there any power He fears? Is there any need He cannot fill? Utter peace pervades His realm because He is God.
Jesus knew His followers were soon to face the same forces that would gleefully murder the Lord of life. He realized that as the means of their own martyrdoms overshadowed their lives, they would need a peace not available from natural sources. So He found a way to take some of His own supernatural peace and drop it into their hearts. In the chaos of mock trials, burnings at the stake, being boiled in oil, stoned, beheaded, drawn and quartered…crucified; they went serene with praise on their lips and love in their hearts drinking deeply of a potion no earthly hand could blend. They were filled with the only real peace in the time of trouble…HIS peace.
Draw near that same Source beloved as you face the crisis of the day. You will discover the truth as did the martyrs; His peace truly IS the peace that passeth understanding. One might even say the peace of God makes no sense at all. Well, of course it doesn’t. It isn’t based on the circumstances in which life is lived. It is based on Him and His character because it is His peace…not yours. God is giving you His own personal serenity and confidence to get you through whatever life may throw your way. Bask in it as He envelops you with the peace of God from the God of peace.
Honored to serve as your pastor,
Rich Orrell
