By Lorraine Barter
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 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. You heard me say, “I am going away and I am coming back to you.” If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I.
This passage has remained a comfort to me throughout my life. Why? God has promised that one day I will be with Jesus forever. He has made a place for me and I will see him again. We all experience trials and times of sorrow and of suffering. My God has promised me His peace, His comfort and an Indwelling Holy Spirit. My God is faithful, loving and caring and I am thankful that in times of sorrow and suffering I can rely on His promises. In an ever increasing world of busyness where people are pulled in so many different directions His Word helps to encourage us to take time out to refresh and feed our spirits; to remember that He knows what we are going through and that He is with us through the storms of life. This Bible passage reminds me of His love, care and compassion….
Lorraine, thank you so much for your refreshing reminder that God's peace is the fantastic 'eternal mainstay' that Jesus promises. I would say, wow, God's peace every second of every day; His precious promises and a heavenly home in Christ's presence! As you say, we all experience trials and temptations; but, God's word reminds us that "the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed."
Peace, in today's society with today's all consuming pressures which seem to come from every angle - it is so comforting and managable to know that we need not stress about anything for "....MY peace I GIVE to you; I DO NOT give to you AS THE WORLD gives..." This makes absolute sense, because why would we want to receive peace from the world when the world (society) as it is today, is what causes our stress, strife and trouble? Peace from the world? No Thanks! I gladly accept the PEACE that my Saviour has left and gives to me. Thank you Lorraine for your reflection.
Thanks for giving us this glimpse into your heart, Lorraine. A glimpse into what motivates you; what sustains you. Many people believe that God exists. However, to know Him as “My God” is a very precious thing.