There are so many things in the world today that bring us stress and anxiety. We have stress on our jobs and in our families. Then with the coronavirus threat all around, shootings in the cities, fears of war and natural disasters, along with all the other things happening, our worries and anxieties can take over our lives. We need peace, and we search for it everywhere. Some people find what they mistakenly believe is peace through alcohol or drugs. These might temporarily take their mind off of the trouble, but in the end only make things so much worse. Others might find peace in relationships with others, sometimes through illicit relationships, which can be empty and hollow, especially if the relationship turns sour. Pastimes might bring some relief, taking one’s mind off of problems, but that fulfillment won’t last in the long run. So what does one do? Where can we turn to find peace? Our Scripture reading today from the Prophet Isaiah will give us the answer of where to find true and lasting peace.
During the time when Isaiah was ministering in the Kingdom of Judah, there were great political and military threats all around. The northern Kingdom of Israel was conquered by the Assyrian empire, and the people deported, so many in Judah were nervous and in fear themselves that they would be next. There was always the fear of a coming drought, famine, or locusts. People feared over illnesses for which there was no cure, of financial ruin. They knew stress and anxiety. They needed peace as much as we do today. God gave Isaiah a message to bring to the people at this time, a message that we all need today, as well. Isaiah shares with us today where we can find the peace that we need during the stressful and anxious times we face.
The prophet shares with us the secret of finding true and perfect peace (vs. 3-4). True, lasting peace is found in the presence of God. Christ is our peace. His peace brings an inner sense of contentment and quietness, regardless of our circumstances. With Jesus we can know perfect peace, even during turmoil (John 14:27). When we are devoted to Him, our whole attitude is steady and stable. We will not be shaken by chaos because we are supported by God’s unchanging love and mighty power.
We can faithfully trust our Heavenly Father. No matter what hardships and difficulties we are going through. We can have His peace that passes understanding, that transcends anything we can imagine (Philippians 4:7). To achieve that peace we need to focus on God. Trust in Him and meditate on His Word (Psalm 119:165).
If we go through life only focused on ourselves, our life and problems will go off course. We need to focus our eyes and thoughts on Jesus. He will then keep our paths straight. A fixed trust in the Lord brings a peace that the wicked can never know (Isaiah 48:22). He will bring down those who are arrogant and proud, but will uphold those who are humble and trust in Him. (vs. 5-6). Even so, believers should not be double-minded (James 1:6-8), nor be trying to serve two masters (Matthew 6:24).
God is our strength. He is our Rock of Ages, a rocky crevice where we find shelter from our enemies. If we trust God with all of our life, we don’t need to spend all of our time trying to take care of every problem because we can trust Him to care for us (I Peter 5:7).
If we’ve built a solid house on a foundation of faith, then we have a place of safety and peace to run to when the storms of life hit. However, one must have a relationship with God to gain this place of peace. That house of peace is built, brick by brick, on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ through prayer and God’s Word. Do you have that peace found only through Jesus? If not, turn to Him now and find that true and lasting peace.
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