Strong spirits: peace
Peace is not simply the absence of violence, or chaos, or trouble.
What brings you peace? What takes it away? We talk about peace a lot, but sometimes it is just talk. What does it take to have real, lasting peace?
First of all, we need to realize that peace is not simply the absence of violence, or chaos, or trouble. It is, rather, the ability to remain calm in the midst of those things. Jesus told his disciples (and us) "In this world you will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)
Jesus conquered sin, death, and the devil once and for all at the cross. Obviously, those things are still with us, but the peace we seek is available to us in Jesus, who is more than happy to extend his peace to us. "Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you... Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid." (John 14:27) How? "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer, let your requests be made known to God. And God's peace will keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6,7)
Give yourself and whatever is robbing you of peace to Jesus. His peace will be yours.
