LET THERE BE PEACE

In today’s society the notion of peace on any level appears to be a hard fought principal and emotion to attain. With so many different situations that occur on a daily basis it appears as if true peace has become a foreign concept. Countries, families, spouses and even co-workers seem to be at war with each other. Fighting for what you want in the physical has become the normal process in which to handle situations, and the thought of resolving things in a peaceable manner seems to have become obsolete.
People are living in an overwrought manner, distressed about the complexities and issues of life that they cannot control. Worried about how to make ends meet, worried over the direction of their family lives; so much so that they cannot have any joy, peace or hope. Consumed with the what ifs, what now and what’s next of life. However, as children of God this should never be our case. We should never be consumed or taken aback by the harsh aspects of life. We should be prepared “to count it all joy when we fall into various trials.” (James 1:2) But we cannot count it all joy when we don't know and trust that Christ has already overcome the various trials that await us.
John 16:33 says “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (NKJV) We don't have to wonder or look for peace when trials hit our lives, nor do we have to be fearful or be overcome by them no matter how powerful they appear; instead we must know that in Jesus Christ alone lies the peace we need; knowing that true peace does not come in the absence of hardship, but in the presence of Christ in our lives despite the hardship. When circumstances press you and peace seems far and you need help focusing on the peace of Christ just:
P - Pray for strength
E - Endure the trial
A - Acknowledge where you are
C - Confess your need for Christ's presence
E - Earnestly wait for Him
And Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. (Colossians 3:15 NIV)