January 2
The Peace
That Is a Gift
John 14:27
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.
The world's idea of peace is often the absence of trouble—no conflict, no problems, no stress. But Jesus offers something entirely different. In this verse, He speaks to His disciples just before His crucifixion, a moment filled with immense fear and confusion for them.
Despite the chaos that was about to unfold, He promised them "His peace." This isn't a temporary calm or a fleeting feeling of relief; it's an enduring, spiritual peace that is a gift directly from Him.
Jesus says, "I do not give to you as the world gives." The world’s peace is conditional; it depends on our circumstances being just right. Jesus's peace is unconditional; it is available to us even in the midst of trials and suffering.
It is a peace that exists in our hearts because of His presence and His finished work on the cross. We don't have to earn it or wait for our problems to disappear to receive it. We simply have to accept it and allow it to settle our troubled hearts and minds.
Reflective Question:
How does the peace Jesus offers differ from the peace the world offers? In what specific way can you accept His gift of peace today?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of Your peace. Forgive me for seeking the world’s temporary calm instead of Your enduring presence.
Help me to remember that Your peace is not dependent on my circumstances, but on You alone.
Quiet my anxious thoughts and fill my heart with the peace that only You can give. Amen.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
