John 14:27 Peace I leave you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
Peace. How sweet and comforting it is. It is all the more sweet and comforting when it comes from God and replaces fear. In this verse we are told to not let our hearts be troubled and to not be afraid. Fear is crippling. It can hold us back from trying new things and keep us from succeeding in life. But God tells us we are meant to have peace. And not just any peace, but HIS peace. Peace that is beyond what the world can give. Peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
The Message has a very encouraging translation of this verse: “I’m leaving you well and whole. That’s my parting gift to you. Peace. I don’t leave you the way you’re used to being left – feeling abandoned, bereft. So don’t be upset. Don’t be distraught.” (John 14:27 MSG)
In this translation we see that Jesus is promising us comfort. He is preparing His disciples for life without Him, after He is crucified. But He tells us He will not leave us abandoned. He is with us always (Psalms 73:23, Matthew 28:20). He will never leave us nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:8). Because of this, we have hope. We have peace.
Today, spend some time thanking God for the peace He gives you. His peace is so much more rewarding than anything the world can offer. Thank Him for it and rest in that promise.
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