“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)
“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. (John 14:27)
When we look at the world news, our hearts tend to get frightened. So much unrest, violence, fear! Jesus predicted it would be this way. “In this world you will have trouble,” he said. “But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
How can we as Christians still have peace in our hearts and make a difference in our world?
Paul gives us some practical steps: “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful” (Colossians 4:2).
—Devote yourselves to prayer for your families, church leaders, governments, refugees…
Is there a friend or neighbor you could team up with for prayer on a weekly basis?
—Being watchful. Instead of looking at the problem, keep your eyes on Jesus. As long as Peter kept looking at the Lord Jesus, he walked on water. The moment he focused on the waves, he began to sink. Readjusting our focus may mean spending more time reading God’s Word and less time on watching the news on television.
—Be thankful that no matter what happens in the world, God is still in control. He is never ringing His hands saying, “What am I going to do?” The atrocities committed on innocent refugees, families, children and youths sadden His heart. Pray that they will feel God’s nearness and that they will get the help they need. Perhaps we can help with a donation.
Be thankful for your daily blessings. Write them down in a gratitude journal.
We can rest assured that no matter what happens in the world, Jesus Christ is still the victorious One and Our Sovereign Lord. “I know that you can do all things,” Job said. “No plan of yours can be thwarted” (Job 42:2).
Dwelling on Jesus’ words we can have peace.
by Helen Lescheid
Used by Permission
Further Reading
• Why Does God Allow Acts of Terror?
• Be Anxious For Nothing – A Devotional by Francis Frangipane
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