KNOW JESUS, KNOW PEACE
Philippians 1:2
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
John 16:33
These things have I spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
I’ve been sitting here writing thank you notes. From the window I see a beautiful blue sky, my roses blooming, and squirrels running through the back yard. It’s a pleasant seen. Indeed, when it’s all said and done right now, life is good. It’s easy to be thankful.
In Philippians we read a thank you note written by the Apostle Paul, but when he penned his words he wasn’t in a serene setting with an easy life. At that moment he was in a crude Roman jail cell, surrounded by darkness with only a stream of light filtering through. Yet he wrote of his thankfulness and his joy. He mentioned God’s peace and His grace. How could Paul, in the worst of times, write with such a positive attitude?
Read through Philippians 1 and you will quickly see that Paul’s focus was not on his dark and dismal circumstances, but on Christ, the Gospel and others. Don’t be misled, he was keenly aware of his circumstances, he just chose not to dwell on them. He found peace basking in the hope, joy, and happiness of the Savior. You see, Paul had learned that peace is not a result of circumstances, but true peace comes from knowing Christ.
It’s all summed up in this little equation:
No Jesus = No Peace
Know Jesus = Know Peace
Heavenly Father, when my circumstances seem overwhelming to me, let me look up and see You. Like Paul, let me focus on You and Your grace and be carried on the wings of joy and peace.
By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2008
