How do we find peace? Jesus said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Here Jesus mentions the world’s peace. Does the world really offer any peace?
The world portrays an image of peace by telling us if we have money, we won’t have any cares. So we slave away, striving to gain money and worldly possessions that we think will fill the emptiness. This is our meager attempt to gain peace.
I believe that what Jesus is trying to tell us is that He Himself can fill the longing—the emptiness inside us. Ephesians 2:14 says, “For He Himself is our peace….” We long for peace—a completion of our desires—and He offers it so freely.
How do we acquire this peace? Just by asking. It is a free gift. Jesus said in Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it shall be given to you.…” Another way to find peace is by allowing the Holy Spirit to work daily in our lives. Peace is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). If we allow the Holy Spirit to lead and direct us, then we know that wherever He leads is in His perfect will—and that brings peace!
Let’s look at Philippians 4:6-7: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” This is a specific command that results in a specific promise. God’s peace follows when we ask for help with our worries. Prayer brings peace because prayer changes our state of mind.
Ask the Lord today for the peace that only He can give—the peace that passes all understanding.
—Naomi Knoles