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Approved by the local outreach coordinator of the Department of Spiritual Life on Aug. 19, 2024
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.
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When we think about peace, a good story be reminded of is Jesus sleeping on a boat in the middle of a terrible storm. He knew he could feel at ease in the midst of a dangerous circumstances because his trust was in the father. He ends up calming the storm because the disciples woke him up in concern for their own safety. Some versions quote Jesus stating, “Peace, Be still,” (Mark 4:39 ESV).
In the verses preceding this, Jesus warns his disciples that he will soon leave them. He isn't just hinting at his death; he is also preparing them for his ascension into heaven after the resurrection. Jesus knew they would struggle with perfect faith and would not fully grasp his words. He understood that the waiting would be challenging. Yet, he also knew that through these difficulties and waiting, their trust would grow, and they would come to experience his peace in a way they never had before.
The peace that Jesus commanded over the storm brought calmness and a sense of rest. This showcases his authority in controlling our circumstances. However, the peace that Jesus himself experienced was unwavering, no matter the situation. Just think about it — Jesus never felt fear, worry, doubt, urgency or mistrust in his father.
It's clear that we are not perfect, which means we cannot live entirely free from fear, worry or doubt. But that's precisely why Jesus reassured his disciples in today’s Scripture — a reassurance we can find hope in as well. Jesus made it clear that we will face trouble in this world. This trouble stems not only from the darkness around us but also from our own weaknesses and imperfections.
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To summarize, the peace that comes from God is more than just calmness. The peace Jesus promises us is rooted in the completeness and security found in our relationship with the father. We can trust in this promise because Jesus conquered death on our behalf, paving the way for us to be reconnected with the father. This peace is beyond our understanding; it's a peace that endures even in the midst of a storm. And importantly, it is a peace that comes through the indwelling of the holy spirit.
This is the essence of the Scripture. In John 14, Jesus speaks of the Advocate who will remain with us once he is gone. This Advocate will remind us of Jesus's teachings and guide us into all truth as we continue to follow him. That's why peace is a fruit of the Spirit — our reliance on him leads us to experience and walk in the peace of Christ! As Jesus said in John 14:27 (NIV), "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
Pause: Have you been living in peace lately? It can be difficult to discern at times but take the time to seriously consider if you have been living in the peace God has for you.
Practice: Take time to talk to God today, maybe even journal your prayer and focus on identifying where you need God’s peace in your life. Remember where he has calmed the storms in your life, and then remember that his steadiness is stronger than any storms around you right now.
Grand Canyon University is dedicated to helping all the members of the GCU community learn more about God’s Word. To learn more, view our Christian identity and mission. To explore more about spiritual life at GCU, browse through our other weekly devotionals.
