[Jesus said to his disciples,]"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).

Jesus made several statements like this to remind us that there is peace amidst all the chaos we see going on around us.

There have been many times in my life that I believed I would only find peace when:

    I had all the things I thought I needed.

  • All the conflicts between nations ceased.

  • Churches I served actually practice the teachings they say they believe.

  • All turmoil within and around me had calmed.

  • I had matured enough to consistently reflect the image of Jesus more than my own.

I know that Jesus overcame the world, and that thought calms me.
Guess what? Those conditions haven't happened!

I still have days when I think I'll only have peace when I reach a certain status, have acquired or accomplished enough, or we have less turmoil in the world. But on a deeper level, I have discovered the peace Jesus promised. Even when chaos and uncertainty directly impact me, I know that Jesus overcame the world, and that thought calms me. That assurance gives me peace.

I'm pretty certain that each time I return that realization of peace, Jesus, the Father, and the Spirit must surely smile.

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you (2 Thessalonians 3:16).