“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27
Fear. This is such a prevalent subject in people's everyday lives. Whether it is in regards to a job, the future, family, relationships, people’s opinions, etc. One thing I find particularly amazing about this verse is that Jesus says He “left us” with peace. So, this shows me that taking on peace, rather than fear, anxiousness, and bitterness is in fact a choice that we choose. We have this amazing opportunity that even in the midst of just craziness going on we have the ability, with God, to be completely at peace! But, the question still remains of… “How do I receive the peace He has left for me?”
“Be on your guard; stand firm in your faith; be courageous; be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13
How is it that we stay on our guard? This comes and only comes by being in God’s presence and this is only achieved by reading His word; the Bible. “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.” (Matthew 6:34) This means that each day we should guard ourselves with His word. This in-turn prepares us spiritually, emotionally, etc. for anything that may come.
By reading His word and spending time with God you begin to know His nature, for yourself and on a personal level. Because, when you realize who someone is it makes it easier to receive from them and by doing so this will equip you to walk in love and grace in every situation that may come.
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out all fear, because fear has to do with punishment.” 1 John 4:18
You need to know that God’s love is perfect and it will NOT fail you, ever. His love will drive out all fear in your life. This means even in the most hopeless situations, God wants you to feel totally and completely at peace and this peace you can have today. I want to encourage you that whatever you may be in fear of God is working ALL for your good. God does not allow or cause bad things to happen to us. We live in a fallen world. He can work things for our good in these hopeless situations. You are His beloved and He has only good and perfect gifts for you.
Fancy Meeting You Here,
Elizabeth Burnam
