"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. ...Do not let your hearts be troubled." John 14:27
These words of Jesus deserve to be written indelibly and unforgettably in our hearts: "In Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).
The only truly happy people in the world are those who have the peace of Christ in their hearts. They have a secret peace of which the world knows nothing.
To illustrate this truth, we may think of beautiful Yosemite Valley in California. High up between the peaks and crags, storms rage in wild fury, but in the valley below placid calm prevails. Here the flowers bloom, graceful trees cast their shadow, and songs of birds fill the air. Greater is Christ's way of peace in every believing heart. Here in God's valley we enjoy the peace beyond understanding, the breezes of hope that gently blow from the peaks of paradise.
"God hates heavy and sorrowful feeling and loves cheerful hearts. He has sent His Son to cheer up our souls in Him. The apostles, prophets, Christ Himself, exhort us, yea, command us to rejoice and be glad" (Martin Luther).
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, for the spicy breezes from the heavenly shore I thank and praise you. Amen.
(Taken from "Words of Promise," copyright 1996 (out of print), Concordia Publishing House. For information on other devotional materials, call 1-800-325-3040.)
Today's Bible Readings: Zephaniah 1-3 Acts 24
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