Many search for peace, influential country leaders say that they desire peace, but they pursue peace only in words and actions that do not seek the One who holds the key to real peace.
So what is real peace?
Jesus Christ is called the “Prince of Peace,” and the stories in the Bible make it very clear that He came to this earth to save us, redeem us and reveal His Eternal Kingdom in which His peace will reign forever. The “Stories of the Prophets,” featured in our Bridges training curriculum, speak of the Messiah’s eventual return and his ushering in a peace that surpasses all human understanding and wisdom.
At one of the key moments in Jesus’ ministry, He pronounces to His disciples:
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 NIV).
Jesus clearly states that His peace is not like the peace that the world gives. The peace Jesus is talking about is a peace that surpasses all understanding, that we receive through grace when we have repented and put our trust in Him. However, at the time Jesus said this, the full revelation of the gospel had not yet been completed by His atoning work. The disciples were most likely troubled because Jesus said He was about to leave this world, and they feared the unknown. So when they heard this statement, it was disheartening to say the least. Jesus then says to them:
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 NIV).
(As the apostle Paul states in his writing in Romans 5:1)
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (NIV)
The only peace that satisfies, gives us peace of mind, and allows us to rest in Him, is that which Jesus gives.
Jesus knew that the disciples would go through tribulations, but He wanted them to “take heart” because he had “overcome the world.” These words are very encouraging to me, especially in those moments when there is much confusion and chaos and life feels overwhelming.
Jesus is the “Prince of Peace” and the one who holds the key to what that peace truly means. As the men and women of peace gather from every tribe, tongue, and nation to share the good news of His peace, we at Scriptures In Use promote these gatherings in oral cultures by “stone clearing”. Stone clearing is the process of recognizing different worldviews and what stands in the way of understanding who the One true God is and blocking the truth of Jesus. The stories in SIU’s Bridges curricula convey through only Jesus, you can find that perfect peace. Many oral learners around the globe are finding this everlasting peace even in hostile environments. I hope that you too can find the peace and refuge in God amidst tribulations and chaos of this life.
Good ONe ! The circumstances will change and be challenging, but your awareness of the Spirit of Peace in you will always be there – Just tune-in
Thank you for the encouragement, Gary. Yes staying in tune with and spending time praying and meditating WITH Jesus is so important during these tumultuous times. Blessings to you on your journey with Christ, Kent
The Apostle Paul talks about “conflicts without and fears within”, if ever we’ve experienced that in the USA, it’s now (catching up with the rest of the world). Your thoughts are a good reminder that only Jesus’ peace covers “without and within”. Thanks!
Hi Bruce,
Thank you for your insightful comment and your encouragement. I very much agree with you in that the USA now faces more and more of what the rest of the world has been facing for decades (even centuries). Our only “rest” and “peace” is in Jesus Christ, our Lord. Blessings on your journey with Him who has “Overcome” for us all! In Christ, Kent
Very helpful to me at this time 🙂
So good to hear, Dean. I am turning to the Lord’s promises often during these tumultuous days and finding “rest in Him”! God bless, Kent
Thank you Kent. This was a powerful read.
Hi Michelle, Great to hear from you and thank you for taking the time to read this blog and encourage me with your response. I pray it encourages as you seek the “Prince of Peace” and His promise that we will soon see Him coming on the clouds of heaven to establish His eternal Kingdom forever! God bless, Kent
Thanks for this reminder Kent. It is certainly a constant challenge for all of us to focus on the true source of peace- the Prince of Peace! Thankful for the “stone clearing” and story telling that is building bridges to peace in hearts around the world!
Hi Yvonna,
So true! Thank you for your insightful comments and encouragement in this blog. May it be so Lord! God bless, Kent