The bible tells us that Jesus is the “prince of peace.” Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. John 14:27

What is your definition of peace? Most of us would likely think peace means the absence of uncertainty, chaos, conflict, fear, worry, or anxiety. I feel most at peace when things around me are calm; however, that is a “worldly” peace. It’s a peace that’s there when things are good and calm and goes when my life situation is challenging or chaotic.

What Jesus is telling us is that the peace he gives to us is not like the world’s peace which is based on circumstance. Jesus gives us peace that is not dependent on our circumstances.

The peace Jesus gives us is not the peace that is the absence of problems, but the peace that is the presence of Jesus.

The very presence of Jesus in our lives, and in our hearts and minds through His Holy Spirit is a peace that ‘transcends all understanding.’ This means that it is a peace that makes no earthly ‘sense.’ The people of the world cannot understand or perceive the peace that Jesus spoke of. As His children, we have a peace that is so great we never need to fear or worry again.

This is why God commands us all throughout Scripture with statements like “do not fear, let not your heart be troubled, do not worry, be anxious for nothing, do not be afraid.” He can say this to us because He knows it’s possible, not in our own strength but with His Spirit.

In whom or what are you putting your trust? This will determine your ability to experience the pure and perfect peace of God.

It can be difficult to put your trust in someone you don’t know. Here are a few tips for accessing the peace that Jesus promises.

1. Put your faith in God alone. If you haven’t already, confess to God that you are a sinner, that you need a savior, and that you believe that Jesus is the Son of God who died for your sins and rose again. Ask God for His Holy Spirit.
2. Confess your sin to God when you’re making decisions out of your fear rather than in faith.
3. Pray that God will grow your faith. Faith your fear. Faith and fear cannot coexist.
4. Repeat God’s promises to you in Scripture aloud and meditate on His Word in the morning and evening before bed.

Finally, cast your cares upon Him, and ask Him to fight your battles for you. He is an ever-present help in our time of trouble. He loves you so much. He would die for you, in fact, He already has.

Let’s pray together.

Heavenly Father, I love you. Please forgive me when I don’t believe your promises. Help me with my unbelief. God, I want to experience Your peace that transcends understanding, and I want to know your presence. Help me be strong and courageous knowing that you are with me wherever I go.

I pray these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.