A Prayer for Lasting Peace

　　By Kristine Brown

　　“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.” (John 14:27 NIV)

　　If you were to do a quick search on the internet for “how to find peace,” you’d likely see a long list of advice: be active, get more sleep, spend time outside, eat well. All of these things are good habits to create, and taking care of ourselves is important. However, relying on our daily habits to bring us peace will only satisfy us in the short term. What we need to get through the trials of this life is a peace that lasts.

　　When I pause to think about the people in my life and what they’re going through, I get overwhelmed with worry. Health issues, family struggles, financial crises, and more run from one household to the next like a virus we can’t escape. We want to do something to ease our troubled minds and find calm in the midst of it all. Healthy choices can certainly help strengthen us to face the challenges ahead, but only one habit brings supernatural, long-term relief— daily seeking Jesus’ peace.

　　Jesus freely gives us this lasting peace. His words were recorded in John 14:27, “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.”

　　At a time when Jesus’ disciples expressed confusion and concern over uncertainty about events to come, Jesus comforted and encouraged them. Only his supernatural peace could sustain his followers through what he was about to endure. Nothing would ease the pain of seeing their Savior suffer except the peace that surpasses understanding. (Philippians 4:7)

　　The disciples continued questioning Jesus about the future, and Jesus continued teaching them. As the time of his betrayal approached, Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

　　Today, Jesus still offers peace that provides lasting relief through unspeakable pain. The world wants us to believe a message that peace can only be obtained when we step away from our cares for a while. It tries to convince us that our circumstances need to change in order for us to have a moment’s rest. But that message contradicts the true peace offered through our Savior, Jesus. The truth for all believers says that even in the midst of difficult times, peace is available. It is our gift from Jesus.

　　The peace the word offers is temporary. The peace Jesus provides lasts forever.

　　Let’s pray:

　　Dear God,

　　Right now I need your peace. The cares of this world are triggering worry and stress, and I am struggling to “cast my cares on you” like your Word says in 1 Peter 5:7. Forgive me for relying on the ways of the world to give me peace. I know the peace the world gives is only temporary, but the peace of Jesus lasts forever. Lord, you told us not to “let our hearts be troubled.” I know the only way to release my troubles and find rest is by accepting your gift of peace. I need more than the short-term peace I feel when things settle down, and I have a moment of calm between storms. I need lasting peace that can only come from my Savior, Jesus Christ. Help me remember the most important habit of all. To seek your peace today and every day. Let your peace flow through my mind and spirit, and let it sustain me through whatever I face. Thank you, God, that in the midst of trouble and pain, I have the most incredible gift available to me. Thank you for lasting peace.

　　In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.