Unrushed Living: Embracing Simplicity and Savoring Life's MomentsSample

Peace: Peace That Prospers

“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” JOHN 14:27

Nothing around her seemed peaceful. Anxious thoughts swirled, threatening to take her down. But one thing she had learned about Jesus is that His peace was not negotiable. It was always there for the taking, and all she had to do was agree to it. Not that receiving peace was always an instant calming force for her. She still wrestled with those thoughts and feelings. But somehow, knowing that the peace of heaven was with her made it so much easier to get through.

The Greek word eiréné, which we translate as “peace,” is such a loaded concept. It can mean the absence of war. But it’s the Greek equivalent of shalom in Hebrew, which has a lot more to do with richness, fulfillment, health, peace, and blessing. It’s an all-encompassing word that implies spiritual abundance. When Jesus said He was leaving peace with us, He didn’t mean that war wouldn’t happen. He meant that deep in our souls, where the eternal things live, there would be prosperity. Keeping that in mind helps when we go through hard times. We can always reach deep into the well of His love, knowing what really matters in the middle of it all. Things won’t go perfectly, but we can have perfect peace. And our souls actually get stronger and more beautiful through the flames of trouble. When you find yourself in the fight, all you need to do to tap into His peace is to receive it. Jesus, thank You for Your eiréné, peace.

God,

thank You for always being there for me in the midst of every storm I’ve had to walk through. You have always shown up and reminded me that I’m never alone, even if I feel like I am. You continually provide me with Your comfort, shielding me with Your peace. May I be reminded of Your calming presence and allow that to quiet my heart.

In Jesus’s name, Amen.