How is it possible to have peace during war? The whole world is watching while a big bully intimidates, threatens, persecutes, and invades a country which worked hard at establishing peace and stability the past 8 years. We all cry out, “This war is not fair! It is not warranted, not reasonable, not justified!” Yet the war rages on, and miracles are taking place amidst the flood of an enemy which is relentless in its pursuit of terror and greed for land and power.
MANY are turning to Christ in prayer for a nation under attack by its large enemy. Jesus predicted wars and rumours of war in Matthew 24, saying in verse 6, “You will hear of wars and rumours of wars, but see to it that you are NOT ALARMED/troubled…” (“See to it” = make sure)
Satan is like a roaring lion! He knows his time is limited. But we need NOT fear or be anxious. Shortly before His crucifixion, Jesus encouraged His disciples by saying, “Peace I leave with you; MY peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them (your hearts) be afraid.” [John 14:27]
The world gives peace with health benefits, unemployment funds, bomb shelters, trained police and soldiers and many other ways. But Jesus’ peace is a peace we can only comprehend when we take refuge and shelter in Him, when we rest in Him. It is a peace during troubling circumstances, which keeps us stable and trusting Him with the knowledge that NO matter what transpires, HIS will, His ways, HIS peace need to take priority in our lives.
Precious Father God, thank You so much that You say to each one of us, “MY peace I give to you. NOT as the world gives, do I give to you.” Forgive us for doubting Your love, Your care and Your protection during these challenging times we are living in. Forgive us when we fear the future and tremble when the enemy comes in like a flood. Help us to have the assurance and to fully believe that You always remain in control of not only the world’s circumstances, but also of our lives. In Jesus precious Name we pray, Amen.
Myrtle Turunen