12-30-2023 7:49pm

Strong spirits: where is peace?

Photo: A. Peach

Where in the whole world would you say is the place most in need of God's peace? There are lots of places to choose from. I would say my heart, and yours...

You see, if we were all filled with God's peace, we would be much less likely to act out on our fears, anxieties, anger, and resentments. In fact, we wouldn't have those, because they would have been displaced by his peace.

Jesus told his followers, just before he died, "Peace I leave with you. My peace I give you... Do not be worried and upset, Do not be afraid." (John 14:27) Paul wrote this advice to his friends, "Don't worry about anything. Instead, pray about everything, always asking with a thankful heart. And the peace of God that surpasses understanding will keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Philippians 4:6,7)

I encourage you to bring all your worries, fears, and anxieties to Jesus, and thank him for taking them away. He will! And you will experience his amazing peace of mind and heart.

Gary Schwerin serves as pastor at Caledonia Congregational Church. He is also the Spiritual Development Minister for the YMCA of the Rock River Valley and Executive Director of Bridge Ministries of Rockford. Prior to launching Bridge Ministries, Gary spent many years in leadership with Young Life. His columns appear here every Sunday - subscribe to our daily email so you don't miss any.