Peace in the Midst of Trials

We read in the previous verses that Jesus had warned His disciples as to what was going to happen. The greatest event in human history was about to take place. This event would cause His disciples to scatter and hide because of their fear of the Jewish authorities and community.

It is in this context that we read this verse - “Peace I leave with you. My peace, I give to you.” Why peace? In order to fully understand this verse, we need to be reminded of Jesus’s words in Matthew 6:8 (ESV) - “...your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.” Jesus knew what His disciples needed when all the prophesied events took place. He could have given them strength, but He didn’t. He could have given them hope, but He didn’t. There are so many other good things that He could have given - but He didn’t. Instead, He gave them peace. Why was peace so important for the disciples?

For centuries, inner peace has been considered an important indicator of well-being in both Western and Eastern cultures. It has been a desirable “end state of being” for many people throughout history. An individual without peace will do things rashly. He would likely not be logical in his thinking. Without peace, anxiety will set in, and he will focus his attention towards survival instead of what is right or what is best for everyone. The absence of peace will affect his relationship with the people around him as he becomes self-absorbed.

The disciples were about to encounter their greatest challenge as Jesus’ disciples - their Master would be arrested and put to death. They would then face an uncertain future, even possible arrest, because of their association with Him. Fear and anxiety would grip their hearts. The world they knew would turn against them. They would not be treated well by those who knew them because of their association with Jesus. So, they might give in to their human nature - to run and hide and not love the lost like how Christ loved them. They would be paralysed with fear. That was why Jesus gave them a peace that surpasses all understanding so that fear and anxiousness would not be their masters, dictating every thought and move they make.

When we choose to associate ourselves with Christ, and love as He loved, we would encounter rejection, ridicule and even persecution. In times like these, we must cling on to the peace of God that has already been given to us in the Person of the Holy Spirit. When we cling on to Him, He will direct our thoughts, our emotions and our steps. He will strengthen us to continue to live and love like Jesus.

That was what He gave to the disciples. They went out boldly and proclaimed the gospel without fear. They went out and loved the lost, the lowly, and the broken, up to the point of suffering and death. The peace of God will melt away every threat of fear and anxiousness in our lives as we choose to love like Jesus did. Cling on to His peace and boldly love and share the good news!

Reflection

• What do you think is the difference between the peace that comes from this world and the peace that comes from God?
• What would you look like in the midst of a trial if the Holy Spirit grants you His peace? Describe.

Application

The next time you encounter opposition, rejection, or even persecution, ask the Holy Spirit for the peace that only He can give.