In a society that’s full of busyness, stress and anxiety, there’s a huge need for peace. People are desperate to experience peace, but they try and find it without a relationship with Jesus, the Prince of Peace. They seek it in ways that don’t work - physical fitness, improving their appearance, financial security, fame, social status, or human relationships. Some seek it in alcohol and drugs. But none of these things can provide peace of heart and mind; only a relationship with Jesus can do that. Our sins separate us from God so we live with guilt, stress, and shame. But He has provided a remedy. ‘God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us’ (Romans 5:8 NIV), removing our sin, guilt, and shame, and ending our separation from God. When we trust in Christ as our Saviour He promises: ‘Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ’ (Romans 5:1 NIV). When we feel like everything’s up in the air and situations are becoming overwhelming, we can turn to God who provides us with the peace that we need. God ‘will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you’ (Isaiah 26:3 NIV). If we keep our minds fixed on God, we can experience His peace. The Bible says: ‘Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs and don’t forget to thank him for his answers. If you do this you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand’ (Philippians 4:6-7 TLB).

What now?
Where do you feel most peaceful? Where do you most feel God’s presence? Take a photo if that place and keep it on your phone. Then whenever you feel worried or stressed, take a few minutes to look at the photo and bring your worries to God.