Weekly Devotional 3

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” - John 14:27

Jesus announces His departure from His followers, but introduces the Holy Spirit, sent by God to encourage, reinforce and remind people about the beloved teachings of Jesus. He may no longer be present in body, but the Holy Spirit is present to teach and guide us.

Peace is defined as a state of tranquility or quiet, a state of security, freedom from civil disturbance, lack of conflict, freedom from fear of violence. I dare say, this is rare in our world today, and always has been. Why? Simply put, we are in this world. However, Jesus, referring to His disciples in John 17:16-17, said: “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth.”

Therefore, as always, God provides an answer for us. God has freely offered His love, His word, His peace, His Holy Spirit, and His son. Yet, we are sometimes swayed to act contrary to 1 John 2:15, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world.” We do love the things in the world, and with our choices come consequences. When we act “of this world,” we lose God’s
peace.

How do we regain that promised peace? By remembering God’s love, His word, His peace, His Holy Spirit and His son. With all those and through forgiveness.

Do you and I have peace? “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you...”

By Marilyn Hensley Miniard, Monticello UMC, South East Kentucky District