Peace and the New Year

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:7

Is it because we are uncertain of what’s out there that we are apprehensive at the beginning of a new year? As the cross was looming on the horizon, Jesus met with His disciples in the Upper Room and said, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27, NKJV).

The Greek word that Jesus used, which we translate “to be troubled,” also means to be disturbed, upset, bothered or thrown into confusion. It was used of water that had been roiled by a strong wind. Now, you might say, “Hey, that’s a picture of my life.”

It isn’t simply the issue of terrorism that causes our hearts to be troubled. There are also issues about the economy, environment, global warming, our health, our water...If you want to worry, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

But there’s a better way – hold on to Jesus’ promise. He spoke the word, and the raging storm stopped and the waters stilled. He’s the one who healed the sick and raised the dead.

You can have peace because of the power of Him who bestowed the great legacy on you. He rose from the tomb and said, “Because I live; you shall live also!” That takes away the fear of death. The second reason you can have peace is because of His great promises. He said, “I will never leave you or forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). The third reason you can have peace is that God, not fate or chance or evil, is in control.

This is no make-believe story but a reality. And with that assurance you will walk into a peaceful new year filled with the goodness, grace and blessing of God.

Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I have set the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure. — Psalm 16:5-9