Where can I find peace?

“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

How do we find peace in a chaotic world with hectic lives?

I was recently pondering this question when a podcast episode titled ‘Peace of Heart’ by John Mark Comer dropped into my feed.

John Mark notes that peace is one of the last things Jesus speaks about to his disciples before his crucifixion. And it’s the first thing he says to his disciples after his resurrection: “Peace be with you.” (John 20:21)

Not only does Jesus talk about peace, but he actually gives it to his followers. As John 14 notes, we have already been given the gift of peace. And unlike earthly gifts, this gift is free and permanent. So right now, we already have the peace of Christ, and we will continue to have it in the life to come.

So why don’t we always feel at peace now? Firstly, because Satan is always trying to steal our peace. Secondly, because when we doubt God and his goodness, it suppresses our feeling of peace.

The good news is that God’s gifts are not dependent on our feelings. So as we continue to work through the fruits of the Spirit in upcoming classes, and explore the characteristic of peace, be encouraged that the gift of peace is already yours. So let’s embrace it, with thanks.