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

Our world is broken. Many people are full of anger and hate, which can, unfortunately, be displayed in acts of violence. Recently, we have seen the news of many innocent lives taken, including children, and it is absolutely heartbreaking. We pray for God to come heal the broken and fill our hearts with 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 His 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!

In the grieving, God is near. In the hurting, God is our comfort. In our confusion, God is our steadfast Hope. No matter the circumstances around you, you can rest assured that God is still in control and He will fill us with His perfect peace when we seek Him. 

Suggested prayer: Dear God, stress levels are high, and people need peace. Sometimes it is hard to see past the pain and suffering around us, but I ask that you help me be an example to others of your love, peace, and hope, even in the hardest of circumstances. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.

1. John 16:33.

2. www.sermoncentral.com

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.