June 30th      

When we remember to consider things that aren’t seen, when we remember the true reality, it is easier to have peace in the middle of the storm. When we remember that He sets a table for us in the presence of our enemies, it is easier to find rest in the middle of the chaotic battle.

Look at the words of Jesus:

John 14:27 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.

He give us His peace. Nothing in that verse indicates that we are only entitled to that during certain times. In fact, when Jesus spoke these promises it was during one of the most unpeaceful times for them. They were under Roman rule, being taxed beyond reason and being persecuted often for no reason at all. Jesus knew that all of that was about to get worse and He made it a point to remind them that He will give peace…not peace from war and conflict or Roman rule…not peace as in the absence of the worldly persecution. He gives peace despite the continuation of the conflicts and persecution, in the midst of those things. He gives HIS peace. His peace supersedes everything else. But, we have a choice, we can reach for and receive His peace or we can let ourselves get worked up, worried and afraid.

Read the last line of that verse again: Do not LET your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. That sounds to me like we have a choice of whether to let our heart be troubled or not. So lets choose peace! HIS peace! His peace that passes understanding, His peace that does not depend on our circumstances, His peace that anchors us in the midst of a raging storm. He knew we would need peace that is not from human sources and that is exactly what He gives us.

The reality is that peace is a fruit of the Spirit, so we have access to it 24/7 since the Holy Spirit dwells in us. We just need to tap into it.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

So the next time you feel unsettled, or the waves are pounding at your legs shaking your stance, take a deep breath, quiet your heart and invite the Holy Spirit to calm you with His peace. You are not required to be a slave to your circumstances, you may not be able to change them but you certainly can choose how you will respond and how you let it affect you. Choose to ride the waves of His peace.

Jesus, thank you for knowing that I would need Your peace, not peace from human sources. Help me to remember that Your peace is available to me regardless of my circumstances or location. Please show me how to tap in to that peace whenever and wherever I am. Help me to walk in that peace today through everything that I face. Thank you for being with me in the battlefield and storms.