The world talks much about peace, yet history continually reminds us how little true peace this world can actually provide. Nations sign treaties only to break them. People search for peace through circumstances, possessions, success, or security, yet still live with fear, worry, and unrest in their hearts. But the peace proclaimed by the angels at the birth of Christ was not empty words. Jesus truly is the Prince of Peace, and the peace that He gives is far different from anything this world can offer.
Before going to the cross, Jesus told His disciples, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you.” Notice carefully that He said, “Not as the world giveth.” The world’s peace is temporary and fragile, but the peace of Christ remains steady even in the middle of hardship, uncertainty, and sorrow. That is why believers can have peace even when life around them is troubled.
The Apostle Paul is a wonderful example of this truth. Sitting in a Roman prison, chained and confined, Paul still wrote about peace, joy, thanksgiving, and contentment. He did not spend his time consumed with bitterness or fear. Instead, he pointed believers back to God. Paul understood that true peace is not found in pleasant circumstances, but in walking closely with the Lord and trusting Him daily.
So often we carry burdens that God never intended us to carry alone. We worry, we fear, and we become overwhelmed by the problems of life. Yet Scripture reminds us to bring everything to the Lord in prayer with thanksgiving. When we place our cares into God’s hands and trust His faithfulness, He gives a peace that “passeth all understanding.” It is a peace the world cannot explain because it comes only through Jesus Christ.
The problems of this world will continue, but the believer does not have to live in continual fear and anxiety. The Lord is still in control, and those who walk with Him can experience true peace even in difficult days.