The Gift of Peace - John 14:27

John 14:27 -- "I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid."

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This time of year is often hard on a lot of people. It is the end of the year and it is common to think back to all of the things, good and bad, that happened over the past year. There is a time to grieve over troubles throughout the year, but it is also a great moment of triumph because God grants us a new beginning, a fresh start into the new year.

Just before Jesus was arrested and crucified He gave his disciples some much needed comfort for the struggles He knew lie ahead. He leaves them with the gift of peace of mind and heart. What more is there when the world has turned upside down than knowing, having an inner peace, that all will be right in the end.

This is no guarantee that the world can possess. The world is full of sin, chaotic energy and darkness -- there are not assurances there. But with the Father, our Creator, there is a holy promise that justice will be served. We do not know what this next year brings, but we have assurance that the Lord will be with us wherever we go and that He will give us the strength and the peace in the moments we need it the most.

Joshua 1:9 -- "This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

This is a great comfort -- there is not need to fear. Because not only can the world not give you peace of mind, the world also cannot take away your peace of mind as long as you hold onto God's precious gift. There will always be trouble, persecutions and senseless acts of evil. However, more importantly, there will always be good and light shinning in the world, there will always be God to comfort you and deliver justice. There will always be Jesus waiting for the divine moment to turn the key of death's door and free the world of sin forever. There is a great victory in our future, so do not be afraid. Hold onto God gift to you, peace of mind and heart, and do not every let it go.