April 1: Jehovah Shalom - The Lord is Peace

 Finding Peace in the Midst of Chaos

Alana Harry
Kings SDA Church

 John 14:27 (NIV): “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.”

 Isaiah 26:3 (NIV): “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

 We are busy people. No matter what career path you find yourself in, there are not enough hours in a day. Women often find themselves wearing many hats—mother, daughter, friend, leader, caregiver—and the demands placed on us can easily lead to stress and anxiety. As if all of this was not enough, our world seems to be growing more chaotic by the day. I recently saw a video clip taken from a news report that showed shoppers in a store loading their carts with cartons of eggs, panicked about the increasing costs. Wars, crimes, unstable governments, societal unrest - thinking of these things can cause us to feel overwhelmed and burdened. 

However, as followers of Christ, we have Someone to turn to when life gets to be too much for us to handle. In John 16:33, Jesus says, “I have told you these things, so that you may have peace in me. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Jesus acknowledges our reality when He says that we will face trouble in this world. Yet, He offers us a profound truth: we can find peace in Him despite our circumstances. 

The key is recognizing where our peace comes from. The world offers temporary peace through distractions, achievements, or material possessions. But Jesus assures us that His peace surpasses all worldly offerings. It’s a peace that remains firm even when the ground shakes beneath our feet.

Isaiah 26:3 reminds us that peace is not a passive state; it requires our minds to be steadfast and to place our trust firmly in God. When we center ourselves in God's promises, faithful character, and sovereignty, we create a sanctuary of peace within our hearts, regardless of external chaos.

 Here are some practical ways to cultivate peace in our lives.

 Daily Stillness: Carve out moments each day for quiet reflection. Whether through prayer, meditation, or simply sitting in silence, allow yourself to embrace the presence of Jehovah Shalom. In these still moments, invite the peace of Christ to envelop you.

Scripture Meditation: Choose the verses from John 14:27 and Isaiah 26:3 to meditate upon throughout your week. Write them down and keep them where you can see them as reminders of His promise of peace.

Community Connection: Share with your circle of friends or family about the chaos you’re experiencing and pray together. There’s power in collective prayer, and sharing your burdens can lift the weight off your heart.

Gratitude Practice: Daily, write down three things you are grateful for, especially during times of chaos. Gratitude can shift your focus from the turmoil around you to the peace that resides in your heart.

Encouragement of the Day

Jehovah Shalom, the Lord our Peace, invites us into a deep and abiding tranquility that can quiet the storms around us and within us. May you walk in the assurance that Jehovah Shalom is with you. Even in the midst of life's storms, remember that you can anchor your heart in Him and experience true peace that changes everything.

 Prayer: Dear Jehovah Shalom, thank You for being our source of peace in this chaotic world. Help us rest in Your promises and trust in Your presence daily. May we turn to You when life feels overwhelming and find sanctuary in the stillness of Your love. As we go about our busy lives, remind us to hold on to the peace that You graciously offer us—a peace that transcends understanding. Guide us to cultivate this peace within ourselves and to share it freely with others, reflecting Your light in a world that often feels dark and chaotic. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.