Jesus People: A 6-Day Devotional by Danny Gokeyنموونە

It’s not perfect circumstances that you need. It’s PEACE.

“I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give.  So don’t be troubled or afraid.”  John 14:27 NLT

When your world is swallowed in chaos, do you ever find yourself thinking if only circumstances would change, then you would have peace? You’re not alone. Many people think perfect circumstances externally will give them perfect peace internally. In reality, that thinking is an illusion of control that will only consume you. You try to maintain a tight grip on your spouse, your kids, your job, your friends, the way that others perceive you, all in a desperate attempt to attain peace. Ironically, the harder you hold on, the more difficult things become to handle.

“You will keep in perfect peace the mind stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3 ESV) 

This was a truth Jesus knew and is what made His ministry so effective. If He had allowed Himself to worry about the opinions of others, or questioned God about why He had to take the cross for us, it would have kept Him from fulfilling His purpose. Instead, despite great opposition and the formidable task placed before Him, He trusted God fully and could be at complete peace, even in the midst of a literal storm. 

The Bible tells of a great squall that came upon Jesus and the disciples as they were crossing a lake in their boat. While the winds blew and the waves threatened to overwhelm, Jesus continued sleeping, just like a child. Have you ever noticed how kids and babies can sleep through virtually anything? They’re not burdened by the cares of this world or the opinions of others, and this is the kind of trust in God Jesus calls us to have. “Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it" (Luke 18:17 NLT).

I have peace, I have peace

Peace that surpasses understanding

I know life’s out of my hands

But I’ll make it through cuz I got You

When my world’s in a thousand pieces

Jesus, you’re the only reason

I have peace

So today I ask, what is the source of your peace? Is it internal or external? Is it dependent on circumstances, or are you choosing to receive by faith the peace that your Heavenly Father has promised? Don’t allow the troubles of this world to steal what is already yours. 

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)