The Peace of God makes no sense to the outside world.

Jesus said in 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 heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." Jesus was preparing the disciples that as He was about to be crucified, buried, and resurrected His peace would always stand and sustain them. Our God is not a god of chaos or confusion. As we learn to more fully hear and trust the voice of God, we must ask ourselves, “Where do I feel the most peace?” When there is confusion ensuing from all directions, you can be confident that you are not being led by God. When asking the Lord about future plans, you will often know you are hearing His voice, when peace accompanies the decision.

Now, let me be clear. God will give instructions that can make us uncomfortable. I did not say, "Follow comfort." In fact, in my experience, the Lord may very well call you to many places that are grossly uncomfortable for you. He doesn't promise comfort, but He does promise peace. As you grow in discerning God's voice, ask yourself, "Do I feel the peace of God in this decision?" Peace is knowing that even though you don't understand the details or end results, there is unexplainable peace in your spirit, offered by the Lord. When you are feeling panicked, chaotic, or confused about an approaching decision (or perhaps a decision you have already made), begin to assess why. Do not move forward with future decision-making until you feel the peace of God. If you feel unrest, rush, or pressure, sit and wait upon the Lord. Our Lord does not respond in haste and hurriedness.

Peace is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. (See Galatians 5:22.) Be sure to check your soil. Have you created an environment of rich ground in which peace can grow? Have you created a place in your home, work, family, and mind where the Holy Spirit can freely lead, guide, and instruct? Cultivating fertile ground for peace, includes honoring the Lord, eradicating immorality, greed, pride, dishonesty, and the like. We will experience the peace of God, when we are walking in holiness and righteousness, communing with God daily, and cultivating good soil for peace to grow and flourish.

Points to Ponder:

• Have you created an environment in your home that others would call "peaceful "?
• Have you moved forward with a decision, even though you had a “gut check” of unrest that something didn’t seem right? What was the result, if so?