When we look around us we can find all kinds of chaos. Chaos in the family, community, and political chaos. When we focus on chaos our minds begin to swirl in an unstoppable manner. We begin to think of all kinds of things. Recently a bill passed congress and is setting in the senate to be taken up soon and voted on. If passed many Christian institutions, businesses will have to compromise their beliefs or possibly close their doors. If we continue to focus on this reality it can consume us and agitate our very soul.
But Jesus comes along and says; John 14:27 “peace I give you not as the world gives.” And He goes on to Say “Don’t be troubled or afraid.” Later Jesus tells them John 16:33 (NLT) “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
Paul also in the writings of his epistles gives us admonishment to look to Jesus for our peace. Colossians 3:15 (NLT) “And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.” And also, in Philippians 4:7 (NLT) “Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
One of my favorite songs is “When Peace, Like River” I especially like the second and last stanzas.
Photo by Gláuber Sampaio on Unsplash
When peace like a river attendeth my way,
when sorrows like sea billows roll;
whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
"It is well, it is well with my soul."
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
let this blest assurance control:
that Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
and has shed his own blood for my soul.
My sin oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
my sin, not in part, but the whole,
is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more;
praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul
O Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
the clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
the trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend;
even so, it is well with my soul.
Submitted by Pastor Steve
