“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)
Not only does Jesus want us to have His joy, He also wants us to receive His peace. This peace is beyond what the world can give. Treaties, agreements, and compromises can have positive impacts on society, but Jesus knows true peace takes place in the heart.
In the same conversation with His disciples, Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me.” (John 14:1) God is the source of true peace. We can trust Him to be greater than our fears, greater than our circumstances, and greater than the enemy of our souls.
Paul even said that we can rejoice and give thanks in the midst of anything. Writing from prison he encouraged: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7)
I need God’s peace to guard my heart and my mind! God wants us to know He is present. We can trust Him; we can talk to Him and ask for help; we can thank Him for everything He gives us; and we can let His peace rule our hearts.
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one Body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Colossians 3:15