Choosing Peace
//Denise Hagin Burns
TYPICALLY WHEN MANY of us think of peace, we think of being comforted by the Holy Spirit during a time of tragedy. We pray for peace, and it helps us in our time of need. There are times, however, when the turmoil and anxiety in our lives seem endless. And we need peace for more than just a moment, day, or week.
In John 16:33 (NLT) Jesus said, "'I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.' "
Bad things are going to happen. There's no way around it. Jesus told us ahead of time so that we wouldn't be surprised. He wanted to prepare us, so when hard times come, our response is peace. Jesus was letting us know that in Him, we could live in perpetual peace. However, the choice is ours to make.
Finding Peace
Living a lifestyle of peace is not passive; it's active. Psalm 34:14 (NIV) gives us instructions on how to always have peace.
