I don't know about you but, lately I've been at the point where I just need a break. Time to push everything else aside and rest. Life is crazy and often busy for most of us, whether your in high-school, college, or work one job, two jobs or even three jobs. In our fast paced society it can be hard to catch a break. Recently, I was reminded of just how important it is to take a break, slow down and reset.
I was reminded of what John 20 tells us, in verses 20-22.
"As he spoke, he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord! Again he said, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.” Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit."
Friends, we often forget about that when we find ourselves at the end of our ropes Jesus is right there with us. He never leaves us or forsakes us. Peace be with you. What a powerful statement. It's my prayer we would take these words to heart and understand that in and through Him we have everything we need and He gives us the rest and peace we so desperately need. I love what Psalm 12 verse 6 tells us,
"The Lord ’s promises are pure, like silver refined in a furnace, purified seven times over."
Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit in His absence. The Holy Spirit acts as a guide and comforter. I love that authority in that statement by David, the Lord's promises are pure, like refined silver. His promises never return void friends. He said He would be with us and He said His peace would be with us. You are never alone friends!
I was talking with a friend the other day, I had asked her how she was doing and her response got me thinking. She said, "I've been better, but I've been worse and for the moment I'm just thankful to be living in the goodness of God." WOW! Man, did I feel those words. If I'm honest it made me tear up, life has definitely been challenging at times and the chaotic business within our society has pulled me down more times then I could count, but through it all God has remained faithful.
In the moments I felt at my lowest His mercies were new. I never walked alone and through it all I had a peace only God could give. His promises never fail! He is good and He is kind. It reminds me of the story of Jesus and the disciples in the boat. A storm rages all around them and tosses them here and there, the disciples are panicking, terrified this is the end. In the midst of it all Jesus is asleep. Waking Him the disciples cry out, help us. Jesus speaks, "Peace be still." With those three small words the seas are quieted and the winds instantly calm. Even the wind and waves know His voice! The same God who can calm the seas with a single phrase knows your name and He loves you with an everlasting love.
There is peace friends. A peace that passes all understanding, and that peace comes from Jesus. He is for you and not against you friends! Let Him give you peace.
Much Love friends,
Alianna