By MARY GEISEN
It doesn’t happen this way often. A whispered thought that seems to wake me up. Several reminders of the same words throughout the day. The familiar tug that somehow these words were meant for me. On this day, the words grabbed me and I was determined to find out why.
“Peace” was my first thought as I woke up. This expanded into “Peace, I leave with you” as I scrolled through my Bible app. Right in front of me, in plain letters, were the same words as the verse of the day.
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)
I began to mentally reflect on all that was currently going on in my life. Did I need peace? Was there a deep-seated level of anxiety that I wasn’t aware of? Why did the word “peace” continue to break through my thoughts?
I still don’t have the answers to all of my questions. What I do know is that God desires for you and me to feel His perfect peace. I have several family members and close friends who are experiencing high anxiety in their lives due to job situations, sick family members and friends, and trying to provide for their families. Even if the words from John 14 are not specifically for me, they are words that I can pray over those who are undergoing challenges that seem beyond what they can handle.
The best part is the promise God imparts with these words. God’s peace is beyond our understanding but is there for us to receive it. I easily recognize the strain on the faces of my family and friends, but fail to see that the peace of God is His gift in my times of trouble. Peace is yours to have as you face challenges in your own life.
FOR FURTHER THOUGHT As you begin this new week, let the promise of peace enter your thoughts and prayers. Spend time reminding yourself that God’s promises are true and just. Here are two more verses to pray as you seek peace for yourself or others. God’s promise of peace is for everyone.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7 NIV) You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. (Isaiah 26:3 NIV)
I am praying for peace for my family members and friends that face struggles that feel beyond them. Will you join me in praying for your own peace? I am honored to pray for you in this journey, too. Drop a prayer request in the comments.
PRAYER Father God – I stand before you now believing that your peace is one that surpasses all understanding but is the exact thing I need during times of difficulties. I ask that you cover my friends and family with the gift of your peace as they seek answers to questions that only you know. Thank you for providing what I need to not only pray for others but to aid me in my own time of need. You are a gracious and thoughtful God. I love and praise you. Amen.
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