This morning, I woke up thinking about peace and how powerful it is to both carry peace within us and impart and release peace around us.
Just walking into a room where there is a conflict or one where there is love and peace tells us that we can effect and change the atmosphere. We are far more powerful than we think and what we carry within and upon our lives does make a difference to those around us and the world. The question is will we be instruments of peace, or instruments of fear and strife?
The Oxford dictionary defines peace as “a state of being calm or quiet.” However, the peace that Jesus said He would give us is more than just the absence of conflict or being quiet. The bible’s original languages are Hebrew and Greek, and peace in Hebrew is Shalom, which means to be in a state of wholeness or completeness, without any deficiency or lack. In Greek, the word for peace is Eirene (i-ray’-nay), meaning unity in relationships, quietness, and rest. When Jesus said my peace I give to you, my peace I leave with you. He was saying, “I give you my completeness, wholeness, provision and rest in your life and relationships.”
“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.” (John 14:27 NIV)
Today instead of engaging with all the fear, bad news and angst in the world, engage and focus upon peace, and Jesus who is the Prince of peace. (Isaiah 9:6) His peace in our lives provides the quiet and rest we so badly need and has the power to change lives and atmospheres all around us. His peace silenced the storm, calmed the terrified Israelites as He parted the Red Sea, caused David to be able to run into battle with a peaceful assurance that God was with him and cared for Daniel in the lion’s den.
No matter what the world is yelling all around you, or how anxious you may be feeling today, Jesus has the power to bring quiet to any storm. Give Him your worries in exchange for His peace, and then seek to be an instrument of peace wherever you go today…..Shalom
“So let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)
“Give all your worries and cares to God for he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
“And he (Jesus) arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.” (Mark 4:39)
“The Lord will fight for you, and you will hold your peace.” (Exodus 14:14)
Prayer: Lord, I give you every care and concern today and exchange it for your peace. Thank you that you calm every storm and bring peace into my heart.In Jesus name Amen.