DAILY DEVOTIONAL FROM PASTOR WESLEY April 20, 2021

Is Peace Possible in Bad Times?

I came forth from the Father and have come into the world; I am leaving the world again and going to the Father." His disciples said, Lo, now You are speaking plainly and are not using a figure of speech. Now we know that You know all things, and have no need for anyone to question You; by this we believe that You came from God." Jesus answered them, Do you now believe? Behold, an hour is coming, and has already come, for you to be scattered, each to his own home, and to leave Me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." John 16:28-33

Contrary to popular belief, peace is not attained by manipulating circumstances. People think that if they could just rearrange their situation—find a new job, overcome depression, stop a spouse from filing for divorce—then life would be wonderful. But that kind of self-reliance is both misleading and unbiblical. We might arrive at a temporary calm, but fixing a problem outside of the Lord’s will won’t provide lasting peace.

The truth is, God’s peace is available no matter how painful and hopeless your situation seems. A tranquil heart comes from trusting Him. Though warning that believers would have trouble on this earth, Jesus assures us that He has overcome the world. In other words, we can have peace in the midst of our trials because the Lord walks alongside us. Our relationship with Christ provides all we need to face difficulty—including courage, wisdom, guidance, and comfort.

Jesus promised peace for those who trust in Him, and He delivers on His promises. Our part is to take one day at a time and believe that He will carry us through. Our Father wants to see us demonstrate faith; we can depend on Him to meet our needs and bestow the divine peace that surpasses all comprehension (Philippians 4:7).

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