If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Romans 12:18
Turn from evil and do good, seek PEACE and PURSUE it. Psalm 34:14
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have PEACE. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33
Meditation:
Daily on TV, internet, and even on our phones, we are targeted by a lot of ads. Vacation spots, hot tubs, beer, wine, tobacco, water parks, etc., are all escapes from our busy lives.
The advertisement world entices us so effectively because it promises something we want: Relief, Comfort, Security, and Escape. It’s something our culture tempts and teases us with in many ways. Now, there’s nothing wrong with resting or getting away to someplace peaceful and beautiful. But there is a difference between escaping life’s hardships and trusting God with them.
In John 16, Jesus tells His disciples that the next chapter of their lives will test their FAITH.”In this world you will have trouble”, He summarizes at the end. And then He adds this promise, “But take heart! I have overcome the world. Jesus didn’t want His disciples to live in despair. Instead, He invited them to TRUST Him, and to know the rest He provides: “I have told you these things,” He said, “So that in me you may have PEACE”.
Jesus doesn’t promise us a pain free life. But He does promise that as we rest and TRUST in Him, we can experience a PEACE that’s deeper and more satisfying that any escape the world tries to sell us.
How have you seen invitations to escape in the world around you recently? How well do you think they might deliver on those promises?
Prayer:
Our Father in heaven, help us to TRUST YOU, so that we may find PEACE and REST in you! Renew our FAITH, HOPE, and STRENGTH, help us to stay connected with YOU, and Spread the Good News of Salvation with words and actions. In Jesus name we pray. Amen!
Author: Jose Reyes
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