On the night Jesus was born into this world, the Bible says there were shepherds tending their flocks near Bethlehem. Out of nowhere an Angel appeared and scared them. He immediately tried to calm their fears by telling them not to be afraid. He told them he was bringing the good news of the Savior’s birth. Then suddenly a heavenly host of angels appeared with him and they began to sing and glorify God. Luke 2:12 says they sang, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased” (NLT). Their announcement was a reminder to us that God sent the Prince of Peace to earth to bring us peace no matter our situation.
On the night Jesus was to be betrayed and handed over to be crucified, He wanted to reassure the disciples. In John 16:33 He told them, “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” Jesus didn’t come to take away our troubles or sorrows. Instead He has promised us peace in the midst of them. It’s a peace that goes beyond understanding or reason, but is there for us. In John 14:27, He said, “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” What an incredible gift to leave with us to help us through an uncertain future. This peace guards our hearts and minds.
2 Thessalonians 3:16 says, “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all.” Whatever you’re going through this season, God’s gift of peace is for you. You may not understand the moment you’re standing in, and you may wonder where God is, but take a moment today to say, “God, I need your gift of peace in my life and the grace to endure.” He will give you the same peace that allowed His son to sleep in a boat in the middle of the storm. Just like that day, He will either speak to the storm around you and say, “Peace. Be still,” or He will speak those words to the storm in your heart and mind. I’ll leave you with Philippians 4:6-7 that says, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
Devotions by Chris Hendrix 