Tuesday- Deep Peace
Have you ever waited and waited to receive something that you thought would make you happy? Have you ever saved your money for a special item, only to find the thrill of it doesn’t last? Have you ever thought, “When this happens, or when I’m in this stage of life I will be satisfied, I will finally have peace”? Have you found that the things, appreciation, happiness that you are seeking is never truly fulfilling?
In John 14, Jesus looks at His disciples and tells them straight out that He is going to the Father. He warns them that he will leave. They are stunned. They have been waiting for 3 years for Jesus to establish His kingdom on Earth. They had put their lives on hold to be leaders of this new kingdom. They had been anticipating the joy and excitement of being at the forefront of Jesus’ reign. But now, Jesus said He was leaving. The disciples are shaken to the core. This is not what they bargained for. This was not the plan. They had big dreams, the Messiah was supposed to be King and restore Israel to her former glory. Jesus couldn’t leave. That didn’t make sense. Now they had wasted 3 years. What would become of them now? They had left their families, businesses, and future plans to follow Him.
Jesus, who knew their fears, who knew their hearts, speaks comfort to them: “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
Jesus knows that we are prone to fear. That we are quick to worry. That we oftentimes give anxiety a foothold in our hearts. That our first response to disappointment, change or waiting for a dream is Fear. So He gives the disciples, and us, exactly what we need- Peace. The peace that Jesus gives us is the Indwelling Holy Spirit who He promises will teach us all things and remind us of Jesus’ teachings. The Holy Spirit is not a fleeting peace. He is not “shopping therapy”, personal time, escaping responsibilities, or just getting away for awhile. That is the worlds’ peace. That peace never lasts.
The peace of the Spirit is His powerful presence in the storms of life. It is His walking with you and guiding you as you make changes and face tough decisions. It is His voice reminding you the truth of who Jesus is and who you are. It is Him calling you to repent and obey and believe.
So this season, as you face things that trouble your heart and cause you fear, cling to the One who clings to you. Know that your fears are vanquished in the presence of our Savior. Know that the gift of peace that Jesus brings is not fleeting or unsatisfying like the “peace” the world promises. Know that the “prince of this world has no hold over me (Jesus)” John 14:30 and therefore since Jesus has given us the Spirit- the “prince of this world” and the fear he brings has no hold over you!
Grace and Peace be to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessings, Hesed