When Jesus appeared to the disciples following His resurrection, the first words He spoke were, “Peace be with you.” (Luke 24:36) Christ left us one of His greatest gifts when He gave up His life on the cross. Peace that surpasses all understanding. An internal overflow that surpasses the quietness and tranquility of the English definition of the word- Peace.
I have come to know this peace as my internal GPS. When decisions weigh heavy on my soul, it is this gift that is given by the Holy Spirit that will guide us into His best. Jesus said that unless He went away- died- the Holy Spirit would not come. But if He did, then He would send him to us. John 16:7 “But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.” As believers, His Spirit lives inside us and navigates us along our paths if only we seek His direction.
This peace has also comforted me beyond impossibility in my darkest moments in life. It was as though this calm sea washed over my innermost being, and whispered to me that I was going to be ok. It is the peace that is seen when tragedy strikes the path of a Believer, yet there is a noticeable calmness about them that the world cannot understand. It is a great misunderstanding when Christians believe that they are immune and protected from all troubles. We live in a fallen world where no man is untouched from some sort of pain, sickness, tragedy, or loss. But Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
I am so thankful for the Spirit’s leading and comfort upon my life! I cannot imagine the hopelessness that I would feel without Him at my center. There is no other navigation system that offers direction as well as comfort, and my prayer is for the lost He places along my path, that the Lord would shine His peace through me, and give me the courage to share His direction with them.
With love- April
Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.