The Journey Continues: Peace

My journey this week asks the question: “If you had only five minutes of time to share your faith, what would you say?”

I would use the words of Jesus:

“I have come to tell you these things so you can have peace. In this world ye shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33

Jesus began by saying,"I have come to tell you these things so you can have peace.” We are all looking for peace – sometimes, in the wrong places. God is the center of peace and love. True peace is not available without repentance and the forgiveness of sin. Because sin is rebellion against God.

Everyone has sinned. There are no “big” or “little” sin; sin is sin. The only sin that is unforgivable is blasphemy (unbelief), which results in eternal separation from God.

Jesus goes on to say, “in this world you will have tribulation.” Trouble can arise with:

• Relationships: family, neighbors, co-workers
• Finances: greed, debt, obligations
• Health: physical, mental, emotional, addictions
• Lust: temptations, pornography, covertness
• Pride: dependence on self or position

Jesus continues with, “but be of good cheer.” Another translation says, "but do not fear, do not be afraid."

As I age, every report of a funeral pricks my consciousness and makes me grateful for the peace I have about my soul.

Jesus closes with, “I have overcome the world,” what awesome power. Christ’s resurrection has overcome death. If God had the power to raise Christ from the dead; if he has done it once, he can do it again. Christ has all power to resurrect anyone who believes in his heart and proclaims with his mouth that “Jesus is Lord,” that person will be saved. Saved from what? From sin and eternal separation from God. This person will also receive the “peace that passes understanding” – perfect peace.

Do you have this peace?