Gifted Peace

Read or Listen: John 16:13-15, 33

We are still looking at the “Fruits of the Spirit”.  As with all fruit, peace, is a
natural product of the Holy Spirit controlled life.  In order for the fruit to grow and mature, it must stay attached to the branch and, in turn, the branch to the vine.  There are many fruit trees in my front yard: apples, pears and plums. When the fruit falls off, it stops maturing and begins to decay.  Sometimes, a chicken will pick it up and race around the yard!  We know when that fruit falls from the tree it will never mature. Why? Because the life and energy that it takes for that fruit to grow came from the nourishment of the tree.  In a similar way, when we become distracted from the Lord, we may lose the fruit of peace in our life. A long list could be made of things that can rob us of our peace…

Paul tells us of one such action in Phil. 4:6-7 —  “worry.” There is nothing you should worry about, but be thankful and pray (v6). This is not a request or
suggestion, it is a command.  This is a “You do this & I will do this”  from God.
If we do our part (be thankful and pray), we can expect the peace of God in our hearts.  This is not just a passive ho-hum peace.  This peace is active.  It guards or hearts and minds.  Isaiah told the people that the mind that is dependent on God will have perfect peace (26:3).

In the book of John (ch. 16), Jesus is speaking to his disciples some of His last words before He suffers the agony of the cross… so they will have peace.  In true ‘Jesus fashion’ He is caring for His people.  It is interesting to hear his concern and the reason He is telling them all these things is that he wants them to have peace — not joy or happiness, but peace. Why?  Because we will suffer.  Jesus gave one more command, “Be courageous. I have conquered the world.”  So it is for us.  We are His people.  Peace is a vital part of our lives.  Let’s be thankful, pray, keep our mind on God and the PEACE of God will rule in our hearts and minds.

Prime-Time Discussion:

What could rob you of your peace?

Is peace just a feeling? …or more?

Who can steal your peace?  Why?

Night-Time Prayer:

Dear Lord, help me to not let worry or anything rob me of the gift of your peace.

devotion by Eric Tyree