Peace Unlike the World's
John 14:27 ESV
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
Source:
ESV: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
NIV: 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.
NKJV: Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
Understanding the Context
John 14 captures a deeply emotional moment as Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure. He's having a final meal with them, explaining that He will be leaving soon, but that He will send the Holy Spirit to be with them. Naturally, the disciples are feeling anxious and uncertain about the future.
In this context, Jesus offers them a gift—His peace. But He makes it clear that this peace is different from the kind of peace the world offers. The world's peace is often fleeting and conditional, dependent on circumstances and external factors. But Jesus' peace is deep and abiding, unshakeable by the storms of life.
The Source of True Peace
Jesus' peace comes from His relationship with the Father and His victory over sin and death. He offers this peace to His followers, not as a temporary feeling, but as a lasting gift. This peace is rooted in His presence and His promises.
Applying This to Our Lives
How can we experience this peace that Jesus offers?
Abide in Christ: Just as Jesus abides in the Father, we can abide in Him through prayer, meditation on His Word, and obedience to His commands. This connection to the true vine is the source of lasting peace.
Trust in Jesus' promises: Jesus has promised to never leave us or forsake us. He has promised to be with us always, even to the end of the age. Cling to these promises and find peace in His faithfulness.
Reject the world's peace: The world offers a counterfeit peace that is based on circumstances, possessions, or achievements. This kind of peace is fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying. Instead, seek the true peace that comes from Jesus.
Don't let your heart be troubled: When challenges and anxieties arise, remember Jesus' words: "Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." Bring your worries to Him and find peace in His presence.
Prayer
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for your peace, a peace that the world cannot give. Fill me with your peace today and help me to abide in you. May I trust in your promises and not be troubled by the anxieties of this world.
Amen.
Additional Thoughts
The peace that Jesus gives is a supernatural gift that transcends our circumstances. It is not dependent on our feelings or our external environment.
When we experience Jesus' peace, it can transform our lives. It can give us hope, strength, and joy, even in the midst of trials.
The peace of Jesus is a witness to the world. When we live in His peace, it shines brightly and draws others to Him.
I hope this devotional has been helpful. May you experience the peace of Christ today and always.
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Jesu
A woman of faith passionate about inspiring and motivating women in their walk with God. Explore topics on cultivating a deeper relationship with God, overcoming challenges with faith, and discovering purpose and strength in Christ. Join Jesu on a journey of faith and be empowered to live boldly and confidently as a woman of God.
Exodus
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