Dave’s Monday Blast – August 23, 2021

“Whatever my lot, you have taught me to say, even so, it is well with my soul.” Likely most of you could sing the words from this song by heart, but the back story is so very powerful and is worth the next few minutes to watch and learn (click here).

Have you ever wondered why peace is so elusive? I’m not talking about the absence of war or turmoil, but an inner peace that produces a calm sense of well-being. A tranquil spirit easily comes when all is going well, but what happens when your personal world or the world around you falls apart? Does peace quickly evaporate when your circumstances change? I certainly feel buffeted by the wind and waves these days!

Pastor Charles Stanley comments: “Jesus gave His followers a type of peace that endures through the most trying situations. ‘Peace I leave with you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let you heart be troubles, nor fearful’ (John 14:27). As an Intentional Man of God, you’ve probably felt an explicable peace uphold you in a crisis, but you may be wondering why you don’t consistently experience it. We’d all like it to come automatically, but Jesus’ promise includes a command to not let our hearts be troubled or afraid. His peace is freely given, but the way we respond often determines whether we experience it.”

The Greek word for “peace” in the New Testament derives from a verb that means “to join,” and that’s exactly what it does. Through Christ, three areas separated by sin are reconciled. You can think of God’s peace as a three-legged stool. Next week I want to begin to unpack those legs in a practical way but here is a quick peek ahead:

1. Peace With God
2. Peace of God
3. Peace with One Another