Discipleship Devotional, June 16th, 2025
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
— John 14:27 (KJV)
When the world talks about peace today, it speaks about outward tranquility and the absence of disturbance, turmoil, or conflict. But this is not the peace that the Lord Jesus spoke about when He said He gives peace. There can be an absence of outward trouble, yet there can be inward turmoil. In many parts of the world, there are places that are peaceful; however, in those same places, you have record-high numbers of depression, suicide, etc. This is because peace is not just the absence of trouble; it is the presence of God.
In our anchor text, Jesus distinguished the peace He gives from what the world can offer. The peace that Jesus offers is produced by the indwelling of His Spirit in us. Such peace can produce inner calmness even in times of turmoil. It is this peace that strengthened many martyrs of our faith to smile even when being burned at the stake. This is the peace that strengthens us through difficult circumstances. Paul, listing the fruit of the Spirit, mentioned peace as one of them.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
— Galatians 5:22 (NIV)
For someone reading this, you cannot find peace in anything else. The peace you seek won’t be obtained through wealth or endless pleasure. This peace is only found in Christ. If you are in Christ and you don’t experience this peace, start becoming prayerful. Paul says that when we pray, the peace of God garrisons our hearts and minds.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
— Philippians 4:6–7 (NIV)
Prayer
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for giving us Your presence which produces perfect joy and peace in our souls.
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