This question was once asked, "If you could choose what you want most in life, what would you ask for?" The most common answer was "Peace."

People want peace in their marriages, families, workplaces, country, and world. Our country has some of the best medical and psychological treatment centers, highest educational institutions, and worldwide communication abilities. Yet with all of these things, most people are yet without true inner peace. The results are devastating... broken marriages, split families, hatred, rebellion, financial anxiety, a country unsettled.²

The world will offer you peace through many forms of distraction... drugs, alcohol, immorality, and constant entertainment. People seek peace through all forms of pleasure, self-satisfaction, and thinking positively. Some believe that peace is defined as the absence of trouble. Because of this, they choose to avoid the problems in their lives believing that this will help find peace. The world, however, will never be able to offer true peace.

True peace comes not from man, but from God. This is the peace we read about in Galatians 5:22. We can experience this peace by being in harmony with God’s will and seeking Him in all things. We have this peace when we rest confidently in God’s love and care for us, knowing that He will provide, sustain, guide, and strengthen all those who trust in Him. We trust in Him first by accepting Him as our Lord and Savior and allowing Him to “take the wheel” of our lives. Secondly, we can nurture our relationship with Christ by spending time with Him in prayer and reading His Word. The Bible is His letter to us and has advice for every situation we can think of!

Some people may reject God’s peace because they are unwilling to give up control and their selfish desires. But I assure you my friend, nothing can compare to the peace you can have in Christ. No matter the circumstances around you, you can rest assured that God is working all things for your good.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, in today’s world, stress levels are high, and people need peace. It may not be easy to give up our own desires but thank you for allowing me to experience the peace that comes from abiding in you. Help others to be drawn to you by seeing how I live my life and how I encounter even the most difficult situations. Thank you for your love and great care for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

1. John 16:33.

2. www.sermoncentral.com

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.