God knew our world would be divided by country, race, actions & emotions.
After all, He is the one who separated us at the tower of Babel, as the result of humanity’s decision to try to reach Heaven based upon the works of their hands.
That drive for glory and conquering has simmered within humanity ever since, rising and falling with those seeking power and conquest.
The world at war is not a new concept. Each generation is reintroduced to leaders trying to out do themselves in their attempts to forcefully take over, at great cost to the lives they trample along the way.
We all know who is at the core of those decisions. The ones which try to obliterate a people off the planet, subjugate the weak to follow their will or else, strike terror at undermining public safety, and sap the peace from the world.
The one trying to rule this world is not going to succeed in the long run. For the war will be run by the King of Heaven.
But the painful battles will continue to rage on, as the enemy’s hate finds willing hosts to do his will, in his attempt to cause the most harm he can to those God loves….each person He has created.
I have been a bit numb with all the recent news over Paris; slavery at home and overseas; Syria; Israel; Iraq.
My heart hurts for all those who have lost a loved one, become displaced, and long for peace in the turmoil their lives have become.
I know His heart breaks for each one as well, for He loves us so.
I have been reminded of several verses over the past weeks. Some through reading the Word directly, some through song lyrics, others through the words and posts of the faithful whom I follow.
Today I want to share 10 verses to remind you that God is able to give you peace despite the swirling going on about you, both here and afar. I will be sharing them in the Message version, because:
1. I need to hear them like I would hear them as if off the lips of one of my best friends.
2. Sometimes hearing a familiar word put in an unfamiliar way can strike a chord within us.
God makes His people strong. God gives His people peace.
Psalm 29:11
For a child has been born—for us!
the gift of a son—for us! He’ll take over the running of the world.
His names will be: Amazing Counselor, Strong God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Wholeness (Peace). His ruling authority will grow, and there’ll be no limits to the wholeness he brings. Isaiah 9:6
People with their minds set on You, You keep completely whole (at peace), steady on their feet, because they keep at it and don’t quit. Isaiah 26:3
God, order a peaceful and whole life for us, because everything we’ve done, You’ve done for us.
Isaiah 26:12
For even if the mountains walk away and the hills fall to pieces,
My love won’t walk away from you,
My covenant commitment of peace won’t fall apart. Isaiah 54:10
Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest (find peace). Walk with Me and work with Me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly. Matthew 11:28-30
I’m leaving you well and whole. That’s my parting gift to you. Peace. I don’t leave you the way you’re used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft. So don’t be upset. Don’t be distraught. John 14: 27
I’ve told you all this so that trusting Me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world.
John 16:33
God has a peace beyond what we can discover for ourselves here in this world. He longs to pour His supernatural peace into us as we look to Him. Above the waves. Beyond the circumstances. Clinging to Him. Despite what we see.
His peace awaits you, Beloved. Allow the fear, anxiety and worry to ebb away as the Prince of Peace draws near, until He is all you can see.
The Creator cares about every tribe, tongue and nation. He will be bringing peace to them all.
A beautiful image has recently been shared on the internet, putting into art what I believe is a reminder to us all that the Prince of Peace knows all happening in this world, and is present there will each of us in it all.
May He speak His peace over you, Beloved. May you see Him with you through it all. May He heighten your awareness of Him, and may you sense Him everywhere you go.
KARLA LEES 