Sometimes the Bible uses the phrase, “the peace of God” (Philippians 4:7). Other times it uses the phrase, “the God of peace” (II Corinthians 13:11). What a joy in a troubled world to be able to live with the peace of God and to personally know the God of peace. The follower of Jesus Christ is privileged to experience peace in the worst circumstances because of his or her relationship with Christ. What are some practical ways God ministers peace to the heart in the troubling circumstances of life?
One, we have peace with our past. Every life is checkered with sinful choices and regret. Sometimes the worry over past mistakes keeps people up at night. A very troubled man once shared details of past choices for which he could find no peace. His alcoholism was linked directly to his need to numb his memory and find temporary relief. The power of the gospel of Jesus Christ is that He will forgive every sin of your past – every sin. Even the Apostle Paul lamented his past, but quickly followed with the joy of God’s mercy (I Timothy 1:13). Forgiveness for every past sin is available in Jesus Christ.
Two, we have peace in our problems. Troubling circumstances are a part of every life and there is no way to plan for them all. A summary of today’s headlines is enough to make some people live in despair. Will Covid return? Will the economy recover? Will the price of products continue to soar? Will the border be overrun? Will riots continue? Will there be enough toilet paper? If you are looking for peace in your life based on the circumstances of life, you are in for disappointment. Jesus said, “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows” (John 16:33, NLT). We can have peace in Christ and His words even while we live through the troubles of life. Peace comes from knowing that Jesus Christ is ultimately in control and nothing happens in life without His knowledge. Whatever I face, I face with His presence and His permission.
Three, we have peace in death. The gospel of Jesus Christ includes both His death on the cross for the sins of the world and His resurrection from the grave. The Bible declares, “...Jesus Christ…has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel…” (II Timothy 1:10, NKJ). Jesus Christ disarmed death. Though it looks threatening and we still must walk through it, the bondage of its fear has been broken! My office desk has a casket crank, which is used to seal caskets. It reminds me that death has no power over me. For the follower of Christ, death is not the end but the entrance into the very presence of God.