Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson: John 14:25-27

 March 27

“I have spoken these things while staying with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and will cause you to remember everything I said to you. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; I do not give it to you as the world does. Do not let your hearts be distressed or lacking in courage." - John 14:25-27 (NET)

Unlike worldly peace, which is usually defined as the absence of conflict, the peace Jesus promises us in the gospel of John is a peace in the midst of conflict. This peace, or Shalom in Hebrew, offers us a confident assurance in any circumstance that God is with us and we need not fear. With Christ's peace, we have no need to fear the present or future. When sin, fear, uncertainty, doubt, and other forces are at war within us, we can become agitated, angry, anxious, panicky, and stressed. Whenever the peace or Shalom of God moves into our hearts and lives, these hostile forces are restrained or eliminated. The peace Jesus gives us offers comfort in place of conflict and gives us the gift of "wholeness" or healing with a balanced unity of body, mind, and spirit. Jesus says he will give us this peace if we are willing to seek and accept it.

When Jesus became aware his time on earth was limited, he promised the disciples he would send them the Holy Spirit after he could no longer physically be with them. This "Advocate" or Holy Spirit would help them remember what he had taught them. We can be confident that this promise is also true for us today as we follow Jesus as disciples in our world. The Holy Spirit can help us in the same ways. As we study the Bible, we can trust the Holy Spirit to bring truth to our minds, show us God's will, and guide us in the right ways. The result of the Holy Spirit's work is not only deep and lasting peace but will also manifest wisdom, strength, and security by the power of God living in your life every day.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, Thank you for granting me the Peace of Christ that passes all understanding. Amen.

Meditation For The Day: Peace rejuvenates. Fear intimidates.

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Spring Renewal Paperback – February 21, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)