Peace in the Midst of Trying Circumstances

I was reading a devotion this a.m. from Charles Stanley concerning how to experience Christ’s peace. His thoughts were taken from John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” Jesus spoke these amazing words just hours before His crucifixion. We often equate peace with external circumstances, Jesus experienced peace in the midst of very trying circumstances. His peace transcends every trial. In light of the world in which we live, it is understandable that we may question whether or not this “peace of God” is really ours to possess. Although He gives His peace to every believer as a gift, our experience of it is related to our faith in the following truths:

1. God is in control of everything. Without this assurance, the world is a scary place.
2. He loves us and will see us through every circumstance, no matter how difficult.
3. To have Christ’s peace, I must surrender my life to Him. When I hold onto my ways and plans, I’ll experience turmoil.
4. I have a limited perspective and understanding of my circumstances and God’s purposes for allowing them. His goals for me are greater than my immediate comfort.
5. The Lord promises to work all things out for my good. He is continually working to transform my character into Christ’s image.
6. I must INTENTIONALLY live in sync with God, walking in the Spirit and promptly confessing and repenting of sin.
7. Scripture is my foundation for peace. It increases my trust in the Lord’s goodness, assures me that He keeps His promises, and reminds me of His sovereignty over every situation.

Are you experiencing this incomprehensible peace Men of Intention? If not..I would suggest that you are not embracing the truths expressed above. Faith and submission are the most challenging issues for all of us; but only as we surrender control of our lives to Christ and trust in His plan for us will we discover tranquil rest for our souls. As we look forward to 2014…I am convinced that Christ followers will increasingly need His peace to effectively reflect His image to a lost and dying world.