No Peace

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"There is no peace for the wicked," says the LORD. - (Is. 48:22, NASB)

   There are many things in this life that the Christian may or may not have. I know Christians who are wealthy, and many who are not. I know of some who are well-known, and many who are obscure. Some I know of successful business owners, and some who struggle in day-to-day operations. If it a fact of life. Jesus warned us not to store up treasures on earth that are temporary in light of eternity, but store up treasures in heaven. However, there is one "treasure" here on earth that is available only to the Christian: Peace. 
   We often think of peace as the opposite of war. That is a limited understanding of what peace is. In the OT, peace was often seen as a combination of health, prosperity, welfare, happiness, and at rest from conflict around. In other words, primarily external in nature. In the NT, peace was understood better as primarily internal. With the arrival of Jesus, His teachings, then His follower's communication of His teachings, we understand peace to be related to a relationship with God. 
   The great truth in Scripture is that peace is found in God only. Any other "source" of peace is counterfeit and temporary. Wealth does not bring peace, neither does relationships, power, fame, influence,  or any other treasure this world lusts after. None of these are wrong in and of themselves, but when they become the object of our affection, we find that they do not bring any peace. Apart from God, they are just another source of difficulty. Paul tells us that peace is part of the "fruit" or evidence of the residence of God in our lives. (Gal. 5:22-23) Ultimate peace is the result of God being present in our life and walking with Him daily. This is why the lost will never know peace, they do not know God. 
   If you are not a Christian, you need to realize that the peace that you are so desperately looking for is not going to be found until you turn to Jesus. He is the only way to find peace, for He is the source of peace. Ask Him today to forgive you of your sins, save you, and become the Lord of your life. You will discover peace like this world will never know. If you are already a Christian, then spend time with Jesus daily. It is your continual walk with Him that gives you peace.

May God richly bless you as you seek Him.

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