FINDING PEACE

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

This is a verse we love to quote around this time of year. These are the various titles given to Jesus. These are the promises of what He came to do. There is one in particular I want to focus on: Prince of Peace. 

I’m sure you’re like me and have a lot going on. There’s work, family, church, volunteering, baseball games, soccer games, piano practice, and on and on it goes. We’re almost obsessed with our busyness. We love to talk about how busy we all are, and wear it as some kind of badge of honor. But deep down we feel overwhelmed, stressed, and anxious. And all we want is some kind of calm, some kind of peace! How do we find peace? 

Well, maybe you need to clear your schedule a bit (I’m joking, but for real). It can be challenging to find peace when there is so much going on. Maybe finances are a struggle, a family member is sick, or there’s just too much pressure, how do I find peace? Jesus is called the Prince of Peace. What does that mean? Jesus says in John chapter 16 “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.” Jesus speaks this to his disciples as encouragement during his last meal with them. This is just before he is crucified, and the disciples are scattered. Talk about a chaotic situation! 

But Jesus encourages them, He has overcome the world. Jesus is the source of peace. Jesus is our complete source of peace. He has completely overcome this world, and He has victory over all the troubles of this world. In Philippians chapter 4 the Apostle Paul gives us a lesson on how to partake of this peace that Jesus gives:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

So I leave you with this. Rejoice in the Lord in every circumstance. Whatever is troubling you, bring it to God. Lay it at His feet and find rest in His presence. And if life is just too busy, find the quiet moments to remember that He is your God who loves you and cares for you. Spend time with your Savior. He is the Prince of Peace, and you will find peace in Him.