Peace of God
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
It is easier than ever in today’s world to feel overwhelmed. An estimated 42.5 million Americans suffer from an anxiety disorder, and about 322 million suffer from depression worldwide. Many factors cause these disorders, from genetics, medical problems, traumatic events, social media, major life changes, medications, and drug abuse.
This is not a modern problem; the people of old undoubtedly had mental illnesses as well. After the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, death and suffering loomed over mankind… until the Son of God came to be sacrificed and resurrected. Because of His death, mankind’s sins and failures can be pardoned, and through His resurrection, mankind can have eternal life. There is one thing that remains constant in this chaotic life, and that is the love of God through Christ Jesus.
First, I would like to acknowledge that some people have severe depression and anxiety disorders, and I am by no means saying there is an instant cure for that suffering. Sometimes, an individual may require medicine to help them, like another person would with another health issue, and that is okay! Every person has their difficulties and shortcomings. I simply would like to offer wisdom from the Bible and ways we can take strides toward the peace of knowing Jesus Christ and the hope of eternal life.
So how can an individual achieve the peace of God? One may say, “In this fallen world, there is the hope of Jesus, which is great. But how do I achieve peace?” Here are a few ways one can achieve peace through God:
1 Seek to Know God. The first step one must take to achieve the peace of God is to know Him. How can this be done? By truly seeking to learn more about the King of the Universe. Knowing who provides that peace is vital to receiving that peace.
This can be done by reading or hearing the inspired Word of God. Jeremiah 29:13 says: “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” God has given us His wisdom through the Bible, preserved by His Spirit. He has told all what to do to follow Him. God does not force anyone to love Him and pursue Him. Yet He rewards those who earnestly want to know Him.
Along with seeking and knowing God comes faith in Him. Hebrews 11:6 says: “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Believe that He has the power to deliver you from death. Through the blood of His Son Jesus, you believe you are cleansed through your faith in baptism.
2 Seek to Follow God. Once one knows God and knows His infinite love, the love of His Son Jesus… one cannot help but follow His teachings to the best of one’s ability. Following Jesus and the example that He left inevitably leads to eternal life and peace through the Holy Spirit. However, this does not excuse a disciple from troubles in life. Christians, especially babes in Christ, must remember Jesus' reminder to his Apostles and all Christians: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Christians, remember that Jesus has overcome the world throughout life's trials and difficulties. This allows the follower of Christ to transcend their suffering to find meaning in it, knowing that this “[...] light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison [...]” (2 Corinthians 4:17). Because of Jesus Christ, believers can be like a mountain that remains still and constant throughout the storms and passing seasons.
3 Seek Refuge in God. Trusting that God has everything in His hands is difficult. Christians in the early church faced this challenge, and Christians still do today. Whether it be one upset with decisions made on the world-scale, or something occurring behind closed doors, recognizing the Lord is a refuge creates a more serene headspace. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). The Creator of the Universe wants Christians to know they are safe. There is no need to fear, for the Lord God is on their side. “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). An element of this is to make prayer a consistent part of life. Making the Lord your refuge is made even more possible by requesting His help and casting your cares on Him (1 Peter 5:7). In all things, let your requests be made known to God.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” In all things, let your requests be made known to God.
– Philippians 4:6-7
