The 40th President Ronald Reagan led America with a sometimes-controversial foreign policy known as, “Peace Through Strength.” The idea was that military and economic strength would deter aggression and ensure peace.
Of course, this whole idea is based on a somewhat flawed definition of peace. This kind of peace is only available when there is an absence of conflict.
The question is, “Is there ever a time when there is a total absence of conflict in your life?” Probably not. Not for long anyway. So then, the related question becomes, “Can I have peace in the midst of conflict?”
The answer, according to God’s Word is, “Yes.”
For many of the men and women who enter our shelters, it starts with understanding God’s version of peace.
Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give you. Not as the world gives do I give to you.” So first of all, God’s peace isn’t the same as the world’s peace.
The Apostle Paul prayed, “Now may the Lord of Peace Himself give you peace at all times in every way.” So secondly, it is available at all times.
And in Colossians 3 he said, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts …”. So, peace is something we receive, nor conjure up. It is a fruit of the Spirit. It is a grace from God.
And maybe the irony of ironies is that this kind of peace doesn’t come from strength at all. Not ours anyway. It comes from weakness. It comes from surrender to God and His ways.
His strength is made perfect in our weakness. He says to us all, “My grace is sufficient.”
If you’re struggling to find peace in your life, won’t you consider finding it in a relationship with Jesus. He says to us, “In the world you will find tribulation. But take heart: I have overcome the world.”
