In this Armor of God series, we last talked about the Shoes of Peace. Today, let’s discuss John 16:33 to understand more about the peace of Jesus.
John 16:33 “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
This verse reminds us that despite the challenges and tribulations we face, we can find peace in Jesus. He has already overcome the world, and through Him, we can find strength and courage. However, Jesus offers this peace at the most unlikely time. As He is speaking, Judas is conspiring to have Jesus arrested. Jesus knew that He would be tortured and executed in the next 24 hours.
Reflect:
Jesus offers us this peace but how often do we deny ourselves of it? What are some ways that you can turn your worry into worship?
Jesus offers us a different peace, the only and true peace. This peace is offered within the context of difficulty, tragedy, struggle and conflict.
Reflect:
Can you think of a time in your life where you were facing enormous battles but found yourself feeling the peace of God? Maybe during an emotional worship session, a time of prayer or in the arms of a supportive loved one?
Jesus also offers us this peace after teaching his disciples that they would be persecuted and rejected. Jesus warns His disciples that they will face persecution and be expelled from synagogues.
He compares the disciples’ upcoming sorrow to a woman in labor, whose pain turns to joy once her child is born. He assures them that their grief will turn to joy when they see Him again.
Reflect:
How does this encourage you to keep your eye on the eternal? How does this help you to focus on storing your treasures in heaven?
How does this chapter resonate with you in your current season of life? Take a moment to thank God for this peace, bring Him your struggles in prayer and ask Him to give you the strength and focus to find His peace among the chaos and pain of life.
Father, I pray that your peace would find us in our deepest, darkest moments. When everything is crumbling around us, may we remember that the God of the mountain is the God of the valley. Amen.
-Amy Adams of Kingdom Threads by Amy
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