In this broken world, we all experience hurt and pain at different times in our lives. Stacy and I have gone through some of this ourselves this past month as we’ve experienced the loss of someone we became very close with. In the midst of these times, it can feel as if peace is unattainable. However, as followers of Jesus, we’re invited to experience a peace that passes all understanding, a peace that can only come from God Himself.
In John 14:27, Jesus said: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” The words of Jesus here offer us a profound promise. He offers us a peace that’s unlike the peace the world offers. The world’s peace is temporary, dependent on external circumstances, and is often superficial. But God’s peace transcends our circumstances—it settles deep within our souls, providing comfort, strength, and hope, even in the midst of our pain.
But how do we experience this kind of peace? I believe there are a few things we can do to help us experience this peace that Jesus promised:
1. Trust in God’s Sovereignty: When we encounter hurt and pain, it’s natural to question why God allows such things to happen. However, we must remember that God is sovereign and His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9). Trusting in His sovereignty allows us to find solace in the truth that He is still in control, even when we can’t see it and even in the midst of our pain. And as we surrender our hurt and pain to Him, we can experience a sense of peace because we know that He is working all things together for good (Romans 8:28).
2. Seek God’s Presence: In times of pain, it is essential to draw near to God and seek His presence. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” When we intentionally seek God through prayer, worship, and meditating on His Word, we invite His comforting presence into our lives. In His presence, we find strength, restoration, and peace that can only come from Him.
3. Cast Our Cares on Him: God invites us to cast our cares on Him because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). Holding onto our pain and hurt only prolongs our suffering and hinders us from experiencing God’s peace. We must give everyone and everything to Him. When we release our hurts and pains to Him, He replaces our heaviness with His peace, guiding us through the storm and providing us with the strength to endure.
Whatever you’re facing today, know that God sees your pain and He longs to grant you His peace. Trust in His sovereignty, seek His presence, and cast your cares on Him. And as you do so, may the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).
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