Peace

...the peace of God, surpasses all understanding... Philippians 4:7

Is it even possible to live in peace?

If we mean peace in the world, I think it’s highly unlikely although very much sought after. One of the greatest human desires is for peace: peace between nations, peace between neighbors and peace within our own families. The drive for power, control, money, especially in world leaders, tends to pull us apart.

I do believe though, that it is possible as individuals to live in peace. I know people who do. It is beautiful to see the calm and joy they exude even in very difficult situations.

Mother Teresa says, “Works of love are works of peace.” In other words, peace isn’t the result of going through a program or a self-help scheme to make it happen. Peace is the result of spreading God’s love to the people around us. The less we think of ourselves, the more peaceful we are.

Jesus 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   So many people struggle with fears, anxiety and depression because of their worries. God doesn’t want us to live like that. He wants us to be free.

In another message Jesus tells us: “Come to Me, all you who labour and are heavy burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."  Matt. 11:28-30

The more we surrender our will to God and come to trust Him with our whole heart, the less anxious we become and the more peaceful we feel. It doesn’t happen overnight, but the closer we come to Him, the more we will feel “the peace of God that surpasses all understanding”. Phil.4:7
Jesus not only promises to give peace to us, He is our peace.