Disturbing The Peace
read›
John 14:23-30
I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart (v.27).
Sometimes I catch a glimpse of him as he drives
by—reclined in his seat, one arm slung out of
his rolled-down window. He’s the guy with the
car stereo that blasts seismic sound waves through our
neighborhood. His sub-woofers pulse with a booming
rhythm so loud that I can hardly feel my own heartbeat.
In case you think I’m simply dull and cranky, let me
assure you that I love music. And sometimes, I like it
really loud. It’s the jolt of the unexpected musical monster
that sets me on edge; it steals my peace.
Jesus knew this world would furnish all sorts of unsettling
situations. That’s why He said, “I am leaving you with a
gift—peace” (John 14:27). Amazingly, peace is a gift.
We don’t have to work for it; we just have to welcome it.
As Christians, we’re supposed to “let the peace that comes
from Christ rule in [our] hearts” (Colossians 3:15).
Jesus’ gift of peace doesn’t mean that He’ll resolve
every issue in our lives. Our spouse may continue to
overdraw from the checking account. Our kids may not
lose interest in that dreaded rock band. The boss may
never ease up. But somehow, Jesus said we could have
“peace of mind and heart” (John 14:27). Jesus provides
inner peace when outer peace isn’t possible.
For most of us, peaceful life circumstances are
impossible to obtain. And no amount of striving will
create the calm we crave. Perfecting our relationships,
simplifying our schedules, and organizing our homes won’t lead us to longterm
serenity. Jesus said, “The peace I give you is a gift the world cannot give”
(v.27). We can’t manufacture what only Christ can provide.
If something is disturbing your peace today, trust in Jesus’ promise: “You
may have peace in Me. . . . I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
—Jennifer Benson Schuldt
more›
Read Ephesians 2:14-18
to learn about how Jesus
“Himself has brought
peace to us.” Read
Revelation 21:3-4 to
gain a picture of the
peace that believers will
experience in heaven.
next›
How have you tried
to create peace for
yourself? Why do we
sometimes reject Jesus’
gift of peace?
