ESOCS Devotional 20 April 2021
TEXT: JOHN 16:16-33
MEMORY VERSE: “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 KJV
In our text, peace refers to the tranquil state of a soul, a composure, and calm in the face of bad circumstances and situations. Peace is wholeness found in Christ that affects every area of life. It is freedom from anxiety and worry, and the absence of fear. No sorrow, danger, suffering or experience can take away this type of peace.
Peace in Jesus is that which brings intimacy with the Father. It is the peace that settles the mind, strengthens the will, and establishes the heart (Philippians 4:6–7). Peace is one of the major things every Christian needs in his life. Without peace, it will be impossible to experience progress. The only place to be and have peace is in Jesus, and it that does not have limitations and setbacks.
As Christians on the journey of life, it’s helpful to remember that Jesus is in our boat (Luke 8:22). Sometimes, we think we only get into trouble when we’re being disobedient. We need to realise that storms will come – they are inevitable. However, if you have Jesus in your boat, you can have peace in those storms.
We are never alone or abandoned. We have Jesus with us always and in all situations; even until the end of eternity, He will still be with us. All we have to do is stay in Him to enjoy His peace, His presence and His continuous fellowship with the Holy Spirit.
Peace in Jesus can only come through reconciliation brought about by Jesus Christ. The factors responsible for this reconciliation include:
- Being justified by accepting Jesus Christ as your Saviour (Romans 5:1)
- Loving God’s word (Psalm 119:165–168)
- Praying about everything (I Thessalonians 5:17)
- Being spiritually minded (Romans 8:6)
- Keeping your mind on God (Isaiah 26:3–4; Philippians 4:8–9)
- Loving the brethren (Hebrews 12:14; John 13:34-35)
There is no promise in the Bible to suggest that here on earth we shall ever experience freedom from trouble, war, trial, temptation, anguish, loss, etc, but something far better is promised; it is the promise of perfect peace in the midst of all these.
Read yesterday’s ESOCS Devotional here
CHALLENGES
What are those things that are preventing you from enjoying perfect peace with God?
PRAYER POINT
Ask God to fill your life with His peace that passes all understanding.
FURTHER READING: John 11:27; Philippians 4:6-7
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ESOCS Devotional 20 April 2021
