Focus
Pay attention to the tension in your body. Let go of it and any expectations to do anything other than God’s will today. Prepare yourself to hear God’s word.
Read
John 16:25-33
New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
Peace for the Disciples
25 “I have said these things to you in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures but will tell you plainly of the Father. 26 On that day you will ask in my name. I do not say to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf, 27 for the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. 28 I came from the Father and have come into the world; again, I am leaving the world and am going to the Father.”
29 His disciples said, “Yes, now you are speaking plainly, not in any figure of speech! 30 Now we know that you know all things and do not need to have anyone question you; by this we believe that you came from God.” 31 Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? 32 The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each one to his home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. 33 I have said this to you so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution, but take courage: I have conquered the world!”
Reflect
The thought of peace can feel like wishful thinking. In this Scripture, Jesus reminds us that the world is full of trouble and persecution. Jesus also reminds us that we can have peace in this world. God loves us, and because God loves us, He protects us as a loving father protects his children. In addition to protection, our Father offers provision. We need not fear whether we will have what we need to accomplish our purpose in life. Along with protection and provision, God also offers peace.
Peace is a gift; it isn’t something that we can gain for ourselves through material possessions, worldly success, or even in personal relationships. We receive peace when we submit ourselves to God and we turn away from the rat race and expectations of this world. Isaiah the prophet describes how God grants us peace by saying, “People with their minds set on you, you keep completely whole (Shalom), You keep them steady on their feet, because they keep at it and don’t quit. Depend on God and keep at it because in the Lord God you have a sure thing.” (Isaiah 26:3, The Message)
Pray
Lord, We desperately need the peace only You can provide. Amen
Amen.
Go with God!
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