A Peace That Cannot Be Shaken

“The Lord's Justice will dwell in the desert; His Righteousness lives in the fertile field. The fruit of that Righteousness will be Peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever. My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.” (Isaiah 32:16-18 NIV).

Welcome back dear student, the effect of God’s Justice and Righteousness reigning is serenity, resulting in Peace, quietness, confidence, and safety for His people (Psalms 89:14-17). To live in peace is the greatest blessing. People may have different ideas of what peace is – maybe financial security, or good health, or a happy marriage and family. All these are wonderful. A healthy body, bills being paid, or not having mayhem at your door still doesn’t give ultimate peace though, for circumstances can change in a moment. We have often seen this when natural disasters take place; one day all is great – folks are going to work, making dinner, or partying one minute - the next they’re battling for survival, desperately seeking fresh water or shelter. Rich or poor, young, and old, they’re suddenly vulnerable and exposed.

We must always be thankful (Psalm 103). True Peace is not the absence of turmoil – rather, it is the Presence of the Prince of Peace Himself – the Lord Jesus (Isaiah 9:6). Next week marks Thanksgiving for our American friends. November can be a strange month. Wintery weather, and the reality of the dark nights can really hit home, with many people thinking about loved ones who have passed on. But God says that we are not to grieve like those who have no Hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13). Lack of Hope brings a heavy burden of unrelenting grief. Instability and despair rule where there is no revelation of Hope.

What if we focussed on giving thanks instead? It would brighten up the month and clear out negative mindsets for sure. Many treat November like a time of hibernation - laying low before the big party season at Christmas. How about taking this time to start a journal of gratitude dear friend? Studies have shown that those who practice thankfulness are happier and more hopeful. Even the habit of writing down a couple of things every day that you are grateful to God for, will change perspectives. Just because the season may be dark or the weather dreary doesn’t mean that your surroundings must be so! Learning to intentionally count your blessings – even if it’s the smallest thing, will result in a different atmosphere.

Peace cannot be bought; it cannot be earned or captured. Peace comes by entering into God’s rest. Our lead Scripture above describes a place where all is not perfect, but thanks to God’s Presence, even a wasteland becomes fruitful in His timing (Isaiah chapter 32). Jesus alluded to this when He spoke of building one’s life upon the Rock and not upon sand (Matthew 7:24-27). Storms will come - they’re not pleasant - exposing weak foundations, shaking them to the core. Everything in God’s Kingdom is founded upon Justice (His Faithfulness and Equity) and Righteousness (His Holiness and Mercy). There’s a powerful worship song by Maverick City Music called ‘Firm Foundation’. It sings… “rain came, wind blew, but my house is built on You. I’m safe with You, I’m going to make it through…cause I’m standing strong on You”. The more we keep our eyes upon the goodness of God and His Awesome Power, the easier it is to receive, and walk in His Peace. Circumstances don’t have to be perfect, and sometimes things may be difficult – but we can confidently Hope in His Promises and live in Peace strengthened with Joy no matter what’s going on.

We’re having a Thanksgiving Celebration Service this Sunday, Nov 23 rd @ 11am - Eircode: V93V6X4.