“The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.” Psalm 29:11
Our world is full of many things; peace just isn’t one of them. It seems every place on earth is in need of peace. We shouldn’t be surprised. Jesus Himself said we could expect to hear of wars or rumors of wars. As His return draws near, the lack of peace will only increase.
Sometimes, it can be overwhelming to see the state of the world in which we live. We can be tempted to fear, and our faith can falter. Still, Micah 5:4-5 says, “They will live securely, for then His greatness will reach to the ends of the earth. And He will be their peace.”
Christ knew we would face frightening things and encouraged us to have faith. He said, “I have told you these things so that you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
There is no doubt we will all face trials, but there is always hope in the midst of them. As Psalm 29:10 reminds us, “The Lord sits enthroned over the flood.” He is still enthroned over whatever it is that makes you feel like you’re drowning. Put your faith in Him for his word says “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts in you.” (Isaiah 26:3) Don’t waver in your faith; hold on tighter to Him!
Worship: Read Philippians 4:4-7 and reflect on Paul’s answer to the question of peace. First He says, “Rejoice!” Then He says it again and tells us to take everything to Christ, with thanksgiving. Is there something you need to pray about today? Some worry you have. Maybe you’ve prayed about it before but have no peace. Pray again today, but this time, praise God even for your trials for we “know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:3-4) Ask Him to make you complete today and remember that He will work all things for your good! (Romans 8:28)
Family Focus: You know, even children have worries. To adults, those concerns sometimes seem small or insignificant, but to a child they are very real. Take some time to talk with your children about any worries or fears they may have. You might make a special box in which they can put their worries (either in words or in pictures), symbolizing giving those things to God. Help them find scriptures that address fears they have. For instance, a child who is afraid of the dark might find comfort from Psalm 139:12 which tells us that God sees just as well in the darkness as He does in the light.
[…] Day 21: “He Himself is Our Peace” […]