Peace in the Midst of Trouble

Daily Devotional, Thursday, May 13, 2021

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

Isaiah 26:3 (KJV)

Our world is full of trouble. Everywhere you look, there is distress. As Jesus predicted in Matthew 24, the last days will be full of turmoil.

Think of the war in nations such as Syria, Somalia, Chad and Afghanistan. We have hundreds of thousands of displaced and desperate people in war-torn countries. How about COVID-19, which is filling the world with mass graves and incessant mourning?

National lockdowns and curfews, and the disruption of air travel have devastated the global economy. Breadwinners have lost their sources of income. Poverty is getting entrenched.

As we wait for His return, let us revisit His words. “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, NIV). Note that Jesus did not promise His followers a world without trouble.

Society is hostile to God’s faithful people. You will face opposition from the devil and his agents. Your plans will sometimes be frustrated.  You will not always have the happiness you want.

Christ’s has a solution, though. Be encouraged, Christ overcame the world on the cross. He now gives you a gift in your current situation. In John 14:27, he says, “Peace I leave with 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.” (NIV).

Isaiah aptly summarized God’s provision of peace, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”Isaiah 26:3 (KJV).

Father, please give me your perfect peace.