John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you: I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

When was the last time you felt peaceful? I didn’t say happy. Happiness is very momentary and situational. It is easy to be happy when something wonderful happens but that feeling can pass very quickly. The peace that Jesus talked about is very different because it originates from an entirely different place. He is your peace. The fellowship you have with him is not of this world. It does not depend on your circumstances. That is why believers can go through sickness, pain, hardship, imprisonment, life-threatening situations and come out stronger for it. That is not to say they do not experience normal human emotions in the midst of the suffering but they tap into the power that comes from the presence of the Holy Spirit. Remember that promise of Jesus: “And I will ask the Father and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever.” (John 14:16). That promise was fulfilled after his ascension to heaven.

Beyond this sustaining power of the Holy Spirit is the Christian’s belief in the sovereignty and eternal nature of God. He knows the end from the beginning and the life of every child of his is completely within his gaze at all times. If you can ever grasp this fact, it will become possible for you to let go of worry and fear about your future.

“I am the Eternal God. What I start, I finish. Not a child of mine who lives in obedience is ever going to be left to fend for himself or herself. I will be the provider for their needs. As David said, the righteous will not be forsaken. I am a good God, a faithful God. Heaven and earth are mine. My resources are limitless. How then shall I stand by and watch my children suffer want. Only be thou faithful in your obedience and leave the future to me. I am the Eternal God.”