Peace that the world cannot give
by Margaret Silvester
I read the following words recently and thought how true they are. Look at yourself and other people in various situations, and you’ll find that, unconsciously, everyone is seeking peace of mind. People are blessed with many things – intelligence, charm, good looks, popularity, wealth – and yet underneath the surface of their lives they’re disturbed and have a sense of unrest and anxiety.
Jesus said that the peace He gives is not like the peace the world gives. It’s inner peace, peace that is independent of circumstances and it’s a peace that’s only possible when it’s received from Jesus. It’s a peace that comes from having our eyes and hearts fixed on Him and not on the circumstances we find ourselves in.
The peace Jesus talks of is ‘The peace of God, which transcends all understanding’ and which ‘will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 4:7). This peace is in the heart, and is reflected from a right relationship with God. Sometimes circumstances can seem overwhelming. The tendency is to worry and become absorbed in the problem, rather than pouring out our heart to God and exchanging our concerns for His peace.
If we worry about the problems that come into our lives, we look inwards, get disturbed and obliterate Jesus. Peace is found in obeying Him, whatever our circumstances.
Inner peace that’s independent of circumstances is only possible when it’s received from Jesus. Peace is also the fruit of obedience to Jesus. Whenever you obey Him His seal is that of a peace which isn’t a natural one – it’s the peace of Jesus Himself.
Jesus speaks peace to us in the storms of life just as He spoke to the disciples in the storm on the lake (Mark 4:35). His words echo down the centuries, ‘Peace! Be still!’ Storms can be full of noise and confusion, yet He still speaks and we need to be still to hear His voice.
Jesus speaks peace to us in our troubles and says, ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid’. The peace of Jesus in our troubles is the antidote to fear.
Jesus speaks peace to us in our uncertainties and says that His peace is perfect peace. The one whose mind is set on Jesus will be kept in His peace despite the unknown circumstances.
Today, lay it all before Him. If you’re facing difficulties, bereavement, sorrow, sadness, loneliness, or perplexity, hear Jesus say to you personally, ‘Do not let your heart be troubled.’
Prayer: Father, thank You for the peace of heart and mind that Jesus gives. Thank You that it’s a gift promised to all Your children whatever their circumstances. I thank You for the Lord Jesus, and today, as I fix my eyes and my heart on Him, I receive the gift of peace which the world cannot take away. Amen.
Margaret Silvester had a career as a teacher prior to being called into full time Christian Ministry with her husband, David, in 1986. They were involved in establishing a Healing Ministry in the local church and Margaret has a passion to see lost and wounded people found and restored. She and her husband joined the Ellel Ministries teaching and ministry team in 2000 after a clear call from God. Margaret`s book "Stepping Stones to the Father Heart of God" has recently been published.
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