August 12, 2021: Outside Forces Have Nothing on Us

“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” (John 14:27, NIV).

The law of inertia states that an object at rest or in motion will remain so unless acted upon by an outside force. Maybe not intentionally or consciously, but when things don’t go our way, we reason it’s the outside forces’ fault, not ours!

So that’s the reason I’m stressed and miserable. No one wants their progress halted or rest interrupted by “outside forces,” but can these forces really halt and interrupt? Do they have that power and control over us? Jesus tells us not to worry.

God never gives us a directive or command that is not in our best interest and that is not possible to accomplish! He knows about the alarm clocks of life, the traffic, deadlines, migraine headaches, rude co-workers, disrespectful family members, car problems, bills, layoffs, distractions, delays, disruptions, disappointments, disasters, depression, disease. He faced it all Himself (Hebrews 4:15). So He can be trusted when He says He will give us peace.

Inertia is a real thing. It’s a “law.” We have a more powerful God though. Believe and exclaim this verse to the “outside forces” in your life. Make it your own because it is yours.

As you promise, Lord, give us peace, and may we receive it and represent You as You deserve. Amen.

Rick Downes is a deacon and lay teacher at the Shenango Valley church in Ohio.