Poverty. Homelessness. Starvation. Crime. War. Persecution. Destruction. Broken promises. Broken relationships. Broken lives. These are some of the tragic effects of the sin and selfishness of the world, but there is hope. In world of suffering, you can find peace.
Hear the words of Jesus.
John 16:33
33 I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.
You will not find peace in the things of this world. Circumstances will change, people will let you down, and you will let yourself down. So don’t look for peace in circumstances, other people or even yourself. Drugs, alcohol, vapes, tobacco and opioids will destroy your life, not give you peace. They promise peace, but that promise is hollow. Money, material possessions, status and fame will not give you peace. Those things are an illusion and can quickly be gone from your life. People look for peace in the next party, next relationship, next business deal, next home, next electronic gadget, next, next, next. But those things never give peace. They only leave you empty still looking for peace.
In Jesus, you can find peace. Jesus tells us in John 16:33 that in him we can have peace. This is shalom, peace, harmony with God. You will have peace with God because your sins have been forgiven. You will have the peace of God in your heart every day. As you remain close to Jesus, his peace will guard your mind and heart in every circumstance. You’ll stop searching for peace in the things of the world. You can remain calm in the midst of the storm. You can be hopeful when no one else has hope. You can bring peace to others by bringing others to Jesus.
Find your courage in Jesus. In a world that is suffering due to sin, in a world that is hostile toward Christianity, you can be courageous because of Jesus. You are in Christ and Jesus is in you, and Jesus has overcome the world. His death conquered your sin. His resurrection conquered the grave. His Spirit gives you courage and strength for each day.
I don’t know what bit of suffering you are experiencing today, but God does. And he cares more than you can ever imagine. In a world of suffering, you can find peace. Find peace in Jesus.
Hear the words of Jesus one more time.
John 16:33
33 I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.
He truly gives peace- I have struggled with depression for awhile but now I have peace because of Christ.