Pastor's Pondering, February 24, 2014

Peace

Last week we wrote about the Winter Olympics at Sochi, Russia.  Sadly, while the world watched these awesome displays of athletic prowess, people were dying in the Ukraine.  The fighting groups threatened civil war before a fragile peace was established.  This conflict is only symptomatic of the countless wars being fought all over the world.  Rebel groups are vying for power, while historical regimes try to keep control.

It is agonizing knowing that while people are looking for a peaceful coexistence, others are looking to impose their will and they do not care how many people are destroyed to establish their rule. This should not surprise us.  Jesus tells us that in the world we are going to always have trouble, but we have peace in Him (John 16:33).

In Mark 4, Jesus was with the disciples in a boat (Mark 4:35-41).  While He slept, the wind and the rains arose and the ship was in danger of capsizing.  Terrified, the disciples awoke Jesus, and asked Him if He cared that they were about to die. Jesus said the words that have resonated down through the centuries, “Peace, be still” (Mark 4:39) and the wind stopped blowing and everything was calm.

You may be involved in terrible situations.  You may feel that you are surrounded by enemies and destructive forces are about to defeat you.  Do not worry about a thing because He has overcome the world’s destruction.  We can find peace in Him because He will keep us in His perfect peace if we keep our mind fixed and focused upon Him (Isaiah 26:3).  Let us ask God to give us His peace that passes all of our understanding (Philippians 4:7).

Please comment below and share how you allowed God’s peace to rule your life.  Your comments may bless others to follow your example.

John 16:33
New International Version (NIV)
33 “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.”

Isaiah 26:3
New Century Version (NCV)
3 You, Lord, give true peace to those who depend on you, because they trust you.

Philippians 4:7
New International Version (NIV)
7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.