Given and Received

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27 (New King James Version)

A troubled heart and fear can be two very disturbing things in the life of a believer. We all experience them in one way or another. Today, Jesus desires for us to hear Him whisper His words of peace over any trouble or fear that we are presently sensing. Whether it is with finances, health, relationships, occupations, possessions, dreams, or any other area, His words apply. The same Jesus who spoke to the storm at sea and instantly the wind and waves died down. The same Jesus who raised the dead, healed diseases, fed thousands with a single lunch, and came back to life. The same Jesus who gives the peace speaks the words of peace. It was not and is not a cliché or pat answer. It is still promised today just as it was to His disciples and it is offered to all who will receive it for themselves.

I was once again reminded of the need to make wise choices. My troubled heart and fearful thoughts are presently stemming from my own thinking and the suggestions of the enemy. He never comes in full force, but instead brings slight movement to my internal sea of emotions. If I don’t do battle at the first sign of trouble the stirring gets more profound. The longer I wait, the more fierce the storm that brews. I am learning not to let it get to the point of a full force hurricane! I can no longer claim ignorance to his methods and persistence. As long as I am drawing breath on this earth, he is going to be prowling and looking for the most effective way to attack me. I do not have to let him and I do not have to allow my heart to become troubled because of him.

I also do not have to fear that somehow I will fail the tests, lose the battle, be abandoned by my Abba Father, find myself alone and defenseless, or be completely removed from the precious journey He has me on. Each attack, each struggle, each battle, becomes a means of strengthening me for the next. I am continually learning better ways to fight. I no longer feel like a sitting duck. At least now I am a moving target…and one who is praying Scripture and singing praises as I move. I am learning the power of my words and God’s Words. At times I have believers who come along side me to cheer me on and straighten me out. I value them highly. But at ALL times, the God of Heaven and Earth stands with me in incredible ways. I revel in that!

Father, I claim Your words as my own today. I receive the peace You offer to me. Anoint me afresh! Amen.