Peace

Open Your Bible

Isaiah 9:6-7, Isaiah 32:17-18, John 14:18-27, Romans 5:1, Ephesians 2:11-22, Philippians 4:6-7

When I think about peace, I imagine three different things. First, I think of the wrap-around porch at my favorite bed and breakfast on Pawleys Island, South Carolina, where we like to vacation in the summer. It looks out over a marsh, where pelicans dive for fish and the sun paints the grasses yellow and then green. Second, I think of my friend Andi, a woman who imparts wisdom with every word she speaks, whose calm tone pervades every syllable. And finally, I think of the moment when my body sinks into a hot bath. The knowledge that I can sit undisturbed for 20 or 30 minutes is as soothing as the steam.

But our good God tells us that peace is not about a vacation. It’s not about trying to imitate a soft tone of voice, which while authentic to my friend Andi, would be disingenuous if I put it on for size. And it is not about finding more time for self-care, which brings only temporary relief. He knows that the world outside—and the world inside my own mind—is full of strife. But when Christ came, He promised to give His disciples PEACE, not as a means of escape, but as a means to exist and thrive without fear in the midst of the chaos of our world.

According to the scriptures, peace is one aspect of the fruit of the Holy Spirit, something that God the Great Gardener will grow in our hearts and lives if we entrust ourselves to His care, no matter our circumstances. Peace will look different in different people’s lives. In the same way that hydrangeas bloom in different colors in different places, depending on the pH of the soil, peace will arrive in our hearts, blooming in its own way, in its own time. One thing is certain: if God promises to give it, then we will certainly receive it. 

In John 14, Jesus says that peace is something He gives away, freely and without cost—not as the world might try to offer it (John 14:27). In Romans, the apostle Paul encourages believers to remember that “we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). And in his letter to the Philippians, he says “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” is able to guard our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:6–7). 

In the end, our confidence comes not in our own ability to create peace, but in our relationship with the God of the universe who loves us and provides peace in abundance, simply as an act of His great love. Christ is a means of reconciling all people together in unity, no matter the earthly divisions that try to breed hostility between us (Ephesians 2:11–22). God’s peace is not theoretical. It is real. My circumstances might be in total disarray. Vacations and plans might be canceled. Factions might rise up against each other with weapons or words. In the midst of it all, our eternity is settled, our hearts can rest at ease, knowing that God is our peace.

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99 thoughts on "Peace"

  1. Laurel says:

    Lord, please bring peace to the hearts and minds of those in Palestine, Israel, Ukraine, Russia…

  2. Alyx Kemp says:

    As of late, I’ve felt slim to none of God’s peace. Today’s passages brought me to tears. I’m so grateful for our merciful God who not only SAVES us but GIVES us peace on top of that!

  3. Terany Garnett says:

    I know God reminds us that He gives us peace all the time when we forget because I am so focused on everything else/ trying to control everything else.

  4. Aeslin gallegos says:

    ♥️amen

  5. Amber Albert says:

    Peace. Jesus is the Prince of Peace.

  6. Amber Albert says:

    So good!

  7. km smith says:

    Good write!

  8. Claire Rock says:

    ❤️

  9. Tarrah Patch says:

    I opened today with tons of anxiety. And at the end of scripture God spoke to me, Child do not be anxious. I give you peace. Not like this world, do not have a trouble heart.

  10. Gabriella Rossa says:

    Needed these words today thank you Jesus !!!!

  11. Rachel Blessum says:

    This is EXACTLY the study I needed today, I need peace in my life that only Jesus can offer ❤️

  12. Ayo falegan says:

    Thank You Jesus

  13. Kate Emmert says:

    PrYing for this peace to fill my soul and allow God to do it by letting go of my worries and cares.

  14. Rachael Ferguson says:

    He gives us peace! ❤️

  15. Melissa Baker says:

    ❤️

  16. Rhonda Jury says:

    Perfect words for this day…

  17. Chloe Camilli says:

    So helpful. Love this devotional today.

  18. Abril Garcia says:

    Amen

  19. Whitney Milord says:

    Mmmmmm. So, so, so good!

  20. Steffi Ching says:

    Grateful to feel God’s peace in 2020. So much happened but through it all, His peace is never changing. His presence is always near. And where His presence is, it’s where His peace is also. Love this!

  21. Karah Dantas says:

    John 14:2-7 resonated with me, “I am leaving you with a gift- peace of mind & heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So do not be troubled or afraid ❤❤

  22. Christine Orbaczewski says:

    LORD I want to be so close and dependent on you. I want the solid foundation where your Peace is found.

  23. Stacie Alvarez says:

    Peace!

  24. Ariana Gray says:

    This was right on time.

  25. Erica Riley says:

    Love that Gods peace is real and not theoretical

  26. Joyce Nofsinger says:

    Peace does not mean escape. This really resonated with me today.

  27. Joyce Nofsinger says:

    Me too!

  28. Nicole Brink says:

    Peace and contentment are two of my most favorite feelings. I don’t feel love unless I have peace within. I can definitely tell when I am not being obedient with God’s commands.

  29. Isabelle Lima says:

    27“Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your heart be troubled or fearful.

  30. Shelli Hubka says:

    Thriving without fear…… love it!

  31. Daniek Marinus says:

    Will be praying for you Taylor, Meredith and Traci

  32. Helen Boeve says:

    A great reminder of where our hope and peace are from

  33. Brandy Deruso says:

    Peace!

  34. L V says:

    Today’s message was timely for me. I have a few things out of my control that I’m giving God. But yet I still had a nightmare/dream my teeth fell out. So obviously my lack of control is still weighing heavily in my mind. But I’m looking for that peace. Sometimes things being out of my hands can be a relief. It’s not up to me ! I’m hoping to feel that way, and have less teeth falling out dreams

  35. Anastasia McLeod says:

    “But when Christ came, He promised to give his disciples PEACE, not as a means of escape, but as a means to exist and thrive without dear in the midst of the chaos in our world ”

    WOW just wow!

  36. Mary Ellen Brence says:

    I’m so sorry for your loss, Cassidy. Praying for the peace that surpasses all understanding over you right now.

  37. Jasmine R says:

    Loved this!!!

  38. Christina Leal says:

    During today’s reading I wondered how those without Jesus could have Peace. How could their lack of Gods Peace in this crazy world not lead them to run to Him, seek Him and find Him. Not all unbelievers are without peace. They have the worlds peace..a false, temporary peace given by temporary circumstances. This peace distracts them from seeking God as it temporarily fills the void for true, lasting peace. I pray for my family members and friends who are living apart from God, that their temporary sense of peace in this world would run out and it would cause them to run to the Father for the true and lasting peace that only He supplies.

  39. Sierra Arens says:

    Peace. So much easier said then done but something that always reels me in is my quiet time in the word and in prayer with God. I’m a nurse in an emergency room and let me tell you.. finding peace has been a struggle for quiet some time. This chapter hit home and I am so thankful for this community I stumbled upon. It is so uplifting reading y’all’s encouraging words. Prayers all around!!

  40. Michelle Royce says:

    Peace is living without fear. Jesus has our back.

  41. Ty’a Oliver says:

    It sounds simple but accepting God’s peace to just exist has never occurred to me. As a college aged person I feel pressure to accept the world’s peace (validation) and sometimes fight God which leads to unnecessary stress. This was a good word!

  42. Emily Dickerson says:

    Amen! I agree! I am the one causing myself more stress than needed. My mind isn’t resting on the giver of peace.

  43. Emily Dickerson says:

    I feel like I could just sit in peace for awhile. Teaching right now is HARD and I feel as though I haven’t felt peace since before school started. I needed this today, and this study. I need my heart and mind redirected to the Prince of Peace. My prayer is to find peace in my circumstances and to find rest in the Heavenly Father. The true giver if peace.

  44. Audrey Brooks says:

    Praying for this community as we read God’s Truth Together- May we feel his peace not our created peace but His peacefulness as we walk through each day this week.

  45. Cassidy Lilly says:

    The world gives us peace to escape. Christ gives us peace to exist. Such a profound statement. I am currently going through a miscarriage and am really struggling with peace right now. But, reading these scriptures encouraged me so much. I read them over and over and will continue to do so over the next couple weeks. Thank you!

  46. Pam K says:

    Praying for Traci G – for your son, and Meredith A today. I have been studying Matthew this fall and have been reminded of the Lord’s great compassion for us as we face challenges or doubt. He offers for us to come to him – when we are weary or burdened, and He will give us rest. To me, that is also an offer of His peace.

  47. Amber Sapp says:

    I pray for a peace that surpasses all understanding, one that only God and the Holy Spirit can give us

  48. Pamela Chapman says:

    Dorothy, I was so grateful to see your post. You have been on my heart. I have missed you. I am sorry your family gatherings are canceled. Ours are as well. My mom will by herself. I’m praying the Lord will just wrap us all in His love & hold us tight in His peace.

  49. Caroline Barrett says:

    Hi all. Peace has been something that I have been struggling to cultivate during these last few months. I see splashes of peace in my life, but I am struggling to bring it to the forefront of every moment of everyday. Thursdays reading helped me to slow down and remember that through my relationship with God, I can bring peace to the forefront of my thoughts. I will continue to reflect on these words of peace and try to bring peace into my life amidst these messy times.

  50. Lauren Haykus says:

    With all the anxiety that goes with 2020, I am so grateful for my quiet time with God. It helps me gather myself and stay calm knowing God has me. Come rest at my feet!!! Thank you father. Amen

  51. Alyssa Waller says:

    I’m thankful for the study on peace. As a college student, with projects, papers, and tests hitting at the same time, it is so easy to feel overwhelmed with everything, especially things going on outside of school. Knowing that I can have peace in the midst of everything, puts me at ease.

  52. Lindsay C. says:

    Katelyn Stetson- I couldn’t reply directly to your message but I love your takeaway!

  53. Truth Seeker says:

    Meredith Ashley
    Praying for you

  54. Teri Townsend says:

    I truly needed this today- peace is not an escape……it’s thriving without fear. I am just so down and anxious. Need His PEACE

  55. Katelyn Stetson says:

    What struck and surprised me most about today’s reading is that the peace presented isn’t so much personal and internal as it is collective and external. In fact, it doesn’t seem to be a feeling as I had previously thought, but rather a real and tangible promise of what it looks like to be under the reign of Jesus Christ, a reign of justices and righteousness that brings true prosperity. I keep getting drawn back to the imagery throughout: a safe and secure dwelling, one with a very open floor plan since Christ “tore down the dividing wall of hostility”; a building growing into a temple of God’s household (of which we are members, along with the saints) with a foundation of apostles and prophets, and Jesus as the cornerstone… a picture of the body of believers dwelling together in the unity that we find in Christ. And this building of peace is with us (“Peace I leave with you”), guarding our hearts and our minds in everything; a safe and secure dwelling. So peace isn’t really about me. Peace is a home; the home we have in Christ, a home we share with the entire body of believers.

  56. Michelle M says:

    Praying for you Meredith. I often have to tell myself that my relationship with God isn’t based on a feeling or experience, but knowing who he is. Our emotions and feelings can mislead us and distract us from the truth. You may feel faraway from him but he is right there with you. I have been told when you feel faraway from God do more things that make you love God more. Whether that be reading his word, going for a walk, or watching your favorite show.

  57. Michelle M says:

    There is so much going on in the world these days it’s so hard to focus on the peace that surpasses all understanding. I have found that most of the time it is I who is creating the most chaos within myself in my own mind. I’m so thankful for the constant reminders that God places before me or around me with family and friends and most importantly his word.

  58. Dorothy says:

    With her last sentence, “In the midst of it all, our eternity is settled, our hearts can rest at ease, knowing that God is our peace.”, Claire hit home with me. Lately for me peace in my life has been a struggle. I have found out a few weeks ago that my family’s usual Christmas isn’t going to be due to COVID. Then just last week my son cancelled our Thanksgiving because of the more recent spikes. I need these words from God. I need all the words of love, and encouragement I get from all of you, my SRT sisters, and why I strayed from them I don’t know but I am back. And I plan to stay especially right now. These holidays will be the hardest yet. But God, He will get us through them. Yes, this has changed my outlook on life but it hasn’t changed my outlook on my faith or God, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit. If anything, it has made my faith even stronger. I know my niece, my son, my parents and my brother-in-law will be at my side in spirit these holidays. Have a blessed day.

  59. Nhu says:

    I feel like in the times of so much things going on in the world (and it will get worse as Jesus says, like the birth pains accumulating), it is easy to have our peace robbed, stolen if we focus on these things. It is crucial to GUARD our hearts at all cost, with ALL diligence, for out of what comes into our hearts, we will harvest the consequences of those things that we unknowingly or knowingly allow in.
    I pray God will teach us how to keep our mind on Him (through trusting in Him) will clear all these negative emotions and thoughts. The battle is truly the battle of the mind.

    Psalm 112: 5-8 (NIV) Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever. They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD. Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.

    I find singing worship songs everyday while washing dishes or folding clothes or just take a break to sing a few songs really puts me back to perspective to who God is and what He is capable of. Worshipping is a true powerful weapon to guard off any mental attacks from the devil. Let’s sing to the Lord ladies.

    1. Lee Gaar says:

      Amen, Nhu! And one of my current favorite worshipful songs is “Is He Worthy?” by Andrew Peterson. I bask in the knowledge of Jesus full Kingship and glory over all creation as I listen!

  60. Sarah G. says:

    Tara, your thoughts hit home with me. I have been the peace maker in my family also. I had never thought of it as something that isnt mine to “make”. Letting go of feeling as though I need to keep everyone happy/peaceful has been hard, but something that needed done. Thank you on your insight that God is who has to create peace. Your words just resonated with me that the job I had done for so long wasnt something I needed to do. It is up to others to find the peace that God has given us!

  61. Kristy B says:

    My word for today: God is my peace. Amen.

  62. Krystle says:

    Meredith, I’m praying for you! Anchor yourself in God’s Word; everything He says is true! And He will never leave you or forsake you, no matter how far you feel from Him! ❤️

  63. Tara Archibald says:

    “our confidence comes not in our own ability to create peace, but in our relationship with the God of the universe who loves us and provides peace in abundance..” Love this! As the natural born peacemaker growing up in my dysfunctional family I thought keeping the peace was, and is, my job. I’m learning that, though this can be a gift, I need to let it go. Sometimes, in this crazy messed up world, it’s just not up to me to make peace happen. When my brothers fight and don’t speak to each other, it’s not my fault. When my brother chooses anger in his marriage over love, it’s not my fault. When my brother chooses condemnation over forgiveness, it’s not my fault. And it’s not my job to fix anything. God is the peace creator. I can’t make something that isn’t mine to make. Peace comes from God. God is peace. The gospel is peace (I think that’s in a song somewhere :)). Jesus is peace. So I pray to the Peacemaker, the Prince of Peace, for my crazy family. And leave the peace creating to Him.

  64. Meredith Ashley says:

    Hi ladies! I could really use prayer. I have found myself in a pit of anxiety and depression since late July. I’m desperate for a breakthrough, and to experience that peace that surpasses understanding. I feel so far from God and discouraged. I miss so much feeling close to the Lord. I daily battle the lie that perhaps my faith was never legitimate. I want to start winning the battle of the mind, taking every thought captive and making it obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). I want my faith back! Sending love to you all. Thank you in advance for the prayers!

  65. Traci Gendron says:

    As I sit listening to the sea gulls, I feel a great sense of peace. My view overlooks the lake and the mountains. I am in awe of it everyday. God has blessed me with this wonder to enjoy. I have not had much peace lately. We believe my son, 32 may have had a stroke or TIA. Please pray for us. He needs to have an MRI and he can’t lay on his back because of muscle weakness. He could choke on his saliva. I’m so afraid of losing him. I try to remember that God gave His only son for us, can I expect him to think differently for me. He may call my son home before I will ever be ready. Thank you Tina for telling us about the vision of your daughter. My heart truly goes out to you for I may have to also walk in your shoes. I need to hang onto the peace that only God can give me. I’m so thankful for all in this group.

  66. Brenda Leebrick says:

    With Christ we have peace. When we have peace we can move about our normal day to day life reflecting that peace. I think of situations where as we enter a room (someone stressed, someone sick, someone grieving, someone jarred by life, etc) we can introduce peace to the situation by the living presence of the Prince of Peace in us. I pray I will become more like that. Lord, Help me to be so connected to You that I cannot help but reflect your peace.

  67. Terri says:

    Don’t stop at Phil 4:7! Keep reading ladies. Phil 4:8-9 tell you how to get that peace. “And the God of peace shall be with you”. Yes Churchmouse. It is not a fast. It is a lifestyle.

  68. micah cunningham says:

    “If God promises to give it, then we will certainly receive it” – so good! God never breaks his promises, so sometimes we just have to remember to wait patiently for his peace that he promised

  69. Mari V says:

    YES, God is my peace! Our peace my dear SRT sisters!

  70. Sarah D. says:

    Wow I love you all!! Even though we haven’t met in person, I feel like we’re talking across from each other. So thankful for this community. Taylor, I’ll be praying for you and for peace to wash over your day! Thankful for your encouragement Churchmouse and Tina…and everyone else’s comments too!
    Earlier this semester, I felt very anxious over relationships with guys (I commented on here about it) and finding a spouse. It was an interesting time, because I felt like I was consumed with thoughts of marriage and anxiety over talking to guys. But the Lord helped me, and I’ve begun to realize that my season of singleness is so awesome. I can do so many things that I couldn’t do if I was married, and I know that Lord sees the big picture. Marriage is a beautiful thing, and if the Lord wills, one day that may become a reality. But for now, I’m content just diving deep into God’s Word and being rooted in him. A bigger decision for me is figuring out what to do after I graduate college…THAT definitely causes anxiety for me. But, I have also felt a peace that no matter what I do, even I live at home for bit, God’s got me. He’s in control. Have a great day SRT fam!

  71. Maura says:

    Will be praying for you Taylor. Our Prince of Peace Jesus, He has you. I have been reading Intercessory Prayer by Dutch Sheets. And he speaks of Jesus intercession in many ways, but I love that he also says “Jesus came as the “last Adam” to fix what the first Adam messed up. So Christ came to re-present God on the earth. He became the intercessory or mediator going between and re-presenting God to humanity. . . But, that’s not the only direction of Jesus interceding. Great irony exists in the fact that man “the first Adam who was meant to be God’s intercessor, mediator or representative on earth now needed someone to mediate for him. He who was made to represent God on earth now needed someone to re-present him to God. Christ of course, became that representative, intercessor or mediator. Not only did He re-present God to man, but He also re-presented man to God.” Through His blood and sacrifice we are healed. The peace of God is ours in Jesus. Praying you feel it over all the world is screaming at you this day Sisters, He is Mighty, and best of all He came to give us peace and allows us to dwell there. Lay down what ever you are gripping at the beautiful scarred feet of Jesus, wrap yourself in His light and be still and know. Hugs to all y’all! He is so so good!

  72. Diane Mom says:

    When we lack peace, use that uncomfortablness to remind ourselves where our minds have been hanging out. They haven’t been with Jesus. – -“You will keep the mind that is dependent on You in perfect peace, for it is trusting in You. Trust in the Lord forever, because in Yah, the Lord , is an everlasting rock!
    Isaiah 26:3‭-‬4 HCSB
    https://bible.com/bible/72/isa.26.3-4.HCSB

  73. GramsieSue . says:

    Churchmouse, I too deleted social media and turned off the news. It has made such an impact. Not only do I have peace, I get so much more done, I have real conversations with family members, I enjoy each day so much more. During this crazy time I needed the peace that passes understanding and I won’t go back. Thankful for my SRT sisters. ❤️

  74. Jana Wright says:

    Phil. 4:6,7 is so familiar but it spoke to me today! Once again I must leave my anxious thoughts, concerns and circumstances at His feet and choose to experience the peace He so freely gives. I know I cannot do one thing about my circumstances and my concerns over husband, children and grandchildren but….God!!! Thanks, Claire! I love when I look to see who write the devotion and it is you!!

  75. GramsieSue . says:

    Love these words. And glad to have you back, Tina. ❤️

  76. Nancy Singleton says:

    “Peace-a means to exist & thrive without fear in the midst of the chaos of our world.” What a gift indeed!! And it will look different in each of our lives-I love the hydrangea analogy. Churchmouse-your method of fasting from the news, etc, is brilliant! I have definitely cut down on viewing, listening, etc, & it really does have a positive effect! Love, joy & peace to you all, sisters!

  77. Gail F says:

    “…to exists and thrive without fear in the midst of the chaos of our world”…now THAT is peace. It can only come from above! I am thankful for my growing faith. It brings me peace.

  78. Wendi Klaiber says:

    I read the verses in Isaiah 32 that led up to verses 17-18 and in those verses was a contrasting scenario to God’s peace. He is actually calling out the indolent women who were complacent and secure and reveling in their luxury, parties, and good times. Then, came a period of a year where the crops failed, people abandoned the city, and the people were filled with mourning UNTIL the spirit was poured down and justice & righteousness reigned. It reminds me of the year that we have been through and it is only through faith in God and the indwelling of his Spirit that peace will prevail.

  79. Patrice Clayton says:

    I’ve learned so much about peace the last few months. I suffer from anxiety and I would find myself worrying. Philippians 4:7 has guided me during anxious moments.

  80. Alicia Gilbert says:

    I have struggled with anxiety all of my life. Right before covid started, it was at a high point. As uncertain and frightening as pulling the rug out from my “normal” was, I have to say now (looking back) that I am thankful for that time. Because there was nothing to do and nowhere to go, I had nowhere to turn with my anxiety but to the Father, and He was there with open arms. Since then, I have still struggled with my anxiety on and off in moments of overwhelm. I actually felt anxious the other day because I realized as my exams approach, I haven’t had a meltdown (how wound up is that – feeling anxious about not being anxious? Lol!). I asked myself if that means I haven’t been studying enough this semester or if I’m not taking things seriously enough. But really I think the chance is that the feeling of dread that used to follow me around is lifting because the Father is cultivating peace in me. It has been truly life giving. Praying for you ladies to accept the peace the Father freely gives today regardless of the circumstances you find yourself in right now, and that you don’t follow my old ways of “pulling yourself up by your bootstraps” and trying to white knuckle your way through life.

  81. Patty Allen says:

    Peace is a daily goal – to share, to give, to receive. Some days are easier than others but every day it is a goal.

  82. Amy Whittenburg says:

    ❤️

  83. Shelby Moore says:

    Peacefulness is something I struggle with. First day out from quarantining with my sweet husband. We both had covid & it reared it’s ugly head up against us. What a sweet reminder this morning that it comes freely from God.

  84. Lisa Hetrick says:

    I love how today’s reading is a reminder to trust. I tend to interpret many themes in scripture as a call to me to trust, message received, over and over. And it’s the message I most need to receive. Peace for me begins in the mind. It starts within, I listen in, and let it radiate over me. I believe it to be the ultimate in kindness. ❤️ Grace and peace be with you all today and always.

  85. Churchmouse says:

    Six weeks before the election here in the US I started fasting from all social media and news reports. I closed /deleted all social media accounts and the only news I heard is if my husband said something. When he watched the news, I left the room. Too many talking and Twittering heads were stealing my peace. Actually I was giving them permission to steal my peace because I gave them an open door. Peace returned in abundance with this fast as I focused on God’s Word more than those of mere man. It’s been so good for my mental, emotional and spiritual health that this fast may well become permanent. I don’t need anyone else to tell me what to do, think or say. I just need to concentrate on loving God and my neighbor as myself.

  86. Mom to many says:

    Taylor,

    I went and read your post last night and am praying for you to be able to continually give your anxious thoughts to Jesus and for His peace to surround you. I am speaking this to myself to and am twice your age.

    I love reading your honest posts and I want to encourage you that I think you have much wisdom to share with us that are in generations beyond yours. Your heart for Jesus and desire to live in step with Him is so evident in your life. I often think that I hope my sons find a spouse like you!

    Jesus shelter our sister under your arms this day.

  87. Heidi says:

    Peacefulness is difficult for me to exemplify lately. Being still in this absolute tangled up mess of a situation with Covid, MONTHS later than most of us expected to be, a good friend’s dad passing last night from it, my own FIL deteriorating quickly from cancer, my husband having to deal with the emotional and logistical effects of that, young kids STILL not allowed to go to physical school (the mental/emotional effects of THAT on them are more unreal than I could of ever anticipated), overall state of our nation and world on a political level, not to mention unjust racial inequality STILL plaguing our country and having to see/interact with ppl still unwilling to see it or contribute to ending it… It’s a struggle. I find myself closing in sometimes. I will be actively attempting today to keep His perfect peace in the front of my mind and bring my hurts/cares/fears to Him right alongside my gratitude for His just, loving, forgiving, patient provision and salvation. Keeping my mind saturated in His goodness and folding that into my reactions to all of the things around me. Praying to be the piece of light and comfort and peace to hopefully give some refuge to others who are suffering through this mess as well.

  88. Anne Jones says:

    Thank you for comments Churchmouse and Tina. Taylor I’m praying for you to have peace these next few weeks of your clinicals.

  89. Melissa says:

    I love how God’s peace is kind of like Joy. It’s not dependent on our circumstances and we don’t have to muster up enough strength to feel them both. It’s a gift given my God and we can experience it here on this earth amid trials.

    My small group and I were talking about what perfect peace would look like when Jesus returns and brings ultimate justice to the earth, but we get to experience His perfect peace here and now. What a gift to lean into.

    “But when Christ came, He promised to give His disciples PEACE, not as a means of escape, but as a means to exist and thrive without fear in the midst of the chaos of our world.”

  90. Angela Sutherland says:

    I am so thankful for this peace! I was thankful for the reminder in Isaiah that the government rests on Jesus’ shoulder. These are crazy days, and some crazy ideas are coming from high places of authority that could leave one filled with dread or fear. But God…His peace is an anchor. I rest in His absolute authority! And in the general, day to day chaos and questions…His peace is beyond all understanding, and I am so thankful!

  91. Laura says:

    God’s peace is the only reason I continue on through these tumultuous seasons. From Covid to riots to elections, the Lord has stayed constant and keeps giving me reasons to trust in Him. At one point in my life I would have been paralyzed with fear with the surrounding circumstances. I would have engaged in all kinds of conversations about what we should do if….But God has put His peace in my heart. What a gift. He is so good!

  92. Lindsay Groves says:

    Amen Tina! Thanks for sharing your heart.

  93. Sherry says:

    “ In the midst of it all, our eternity is settled, our hearts can rest at ease, knowing that God is our peace.” Thank you God that my eternity is settled. I can rest in peace because of this. Thank you Claire for such great words this morning.

  94. Taylor says:

    I am so thankful for today’s study on peace. If you saw my comment from last night you’ll know I’m struggling with a lot of anxiety surrounding the new unknown of Covid heading into the holidays and the last 4 weeks of my clinical rotation. Today I claim peace over my life, and I entrust myself to the care of the God of the Universe who loves me more than I can imagine. Would you ladies mind praying for my anxiety today and the days to come? I’m sure I’m not alone in these feelings. I pray for anyone else experiencing anxiety during this season, that we would rest in the love and peace that surpasses all understanding. I want to rest in the peace and confidence that God is sovereign, and I do not have to stress about trying to control every situation. Happy Thursday! :)

  95. Churchmouse says:

    Isaiah tells us the result of righteousness is peace. We’ve got to get the main thing anchored down first and that is believing in Jesus as Savior and all that comes with accepting Him. Once we’ve got Him, then we gain quiet confidence. We know our past is forgiven, our present has His guidance and our future is eternal life with Him. Because of these facts we have peace even though our circumstances may be chaotic or confusing. We know we are on sure footing even though the wind howls and the waves rise up. He’s got us and we’ve got Him. He will never let us go.

  96. Tina says:

    I love me a bit of peace sometimes when the going gets tough…or just to be. I love to find a spot by the seaside to just sit and let the sound of the waves wash over me.. or a walk in woods, with the earthy smell and just nature for company.. They do help, for sure, there is a peace and a calm that comes, a peace enough to lift the fog, peace in the moment, but they are not the PEACE that I need or require to live this life well..

    But God..

    Paul says in Philipians 4:11-13

    And I am not saying this because I feel neglected, for I have learned to be satisfied with what I have. I know what it is to be in need and what it is to have more than enough. I have learned this secret, so that anywhere, at any time, I am content, whether I am full or hungry, whether I have too much or too little. I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me.
    Philippians 4:11‭-‬13 GNT

    These verses came to mind as I reads Claire’s words.

    I guess my thinking is that no matter the situation, no matter the trouble, the worry.. if I know His PEACE, His PEACE that surpasses all understanding, I am content… whether in lack or plenty, whether in joy or sadness, whether today is a good day or a bad day, when I have the PEACE that Jesus offers.. as verse 13 says..I have the strength to face ALL conditions by the power that Christ gives me…

    Amen.

    Praying the PEACE of God be with you as you go about your day my Sisters..❤

  97. Kathy says:

    Lord, thank You that Your peace is not determined by my circumstances. Help me to trust You and to let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding guard my heart and mind.

  98. Dana says:

    I long for God to remind us, His children, of unity and heal our division once and for all.