Devotion: Finding peace when I don't understand
In these frightening and troubling times, we are continue to learn more about experiencing the peace Christ gives us as to opposed to the peace the world gives. There is a difference! 27 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
So how can we experience Jesus’ peace?
Stop fixating on circumstances.
Do you know what happens when our circumstances aren’t “good”… we become discontent and that leads is to disappointment then to despair; that is no where near “peace.” The Apostle Paul talked about this in his letter to the Philippians…. The church had been so kind to him by sending him provisions to help support his ministry. He wanted to thank them for that and at the same time to share a key truth for contentment and peace…
Seek His strength - the power of Christ!
11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13
Paul knew what it was like to struggle. He knew what it was like when circumstances were not going his way, when life wasn’t so “good.” But he was not dependent on his circumstances being “good” to be content. He found the secret to contentment - no matter what difficulty, trouble, fear he faced in this world. He believed He could do all things through Christ who gave him strength! I want that strength, how ‘bout you? The great news is, it is available to all who believe!
Do you know what this word “strength” means in the original language? It means “to infuse with power!” That means, God puts His power in Believers! He infuses Christ-Followers with His strength! Think about how mighty and powerful God is!
Some of you are feeling really weak, overwhelmed, burdened by your circumstances. You need strength! You need the power of God! Stop fixating on your circumstance and seek His strength, the power of Christ! There is nothing like it in this world! 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, Ephesians 1:19-20.
The same power that raised Christ from the grave is available to you! Stop fixating on circumstances and instead, seek Christ’s power! His strength will enable you to do all things… even endure through a pandemic!
If I can pray for you, please reach out to me at joel@mywatermark.org.
Blessings!
Pastor Joel
Truth to Ponder: Find contentment despite you circumstances.
Today, seek the peace Christ offers that overrides all circumstances.
In what areas of your life do you need a reset?
Thank God for ALL of his blessings - even those that cause us to struggle.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to help you experience contentment in your life by Christ's power! (Philippians 14:11-13)
