Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 ESV

I find peace in God’s beautiful creation. If God cares for the Mountain Laurels, by clothing them each spring in new leaves and beautiful flowers, we can know that He cares for each one of us.

Our verse this week tells us not to worry about anything. When we have problems and worries we can bring them to God and Jesus in prayer. And we can have God’s peace. Peace is a good feeling of not being worried or afraid, with no arguing or fighting, being calm and confident that things will work out for the best. Jesus replaces our worries and fears with His gift of peace.

 When Jesus was on the earth, He was full of the peace of God, and He promises us this same peace as a gift. Peace helps us not to worry or be afraid, but to have faith and trust. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you, Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27

In Israel, the modern day country of the Bible stories, people say hello and goodbye to each other with one word, “Shalom”. Shalom is a word that means many things – first, peace, but also harmony, wholeness, completeness, success, good life and calmness. Whenever you say, “Shalom,” you are blessing someone not only with peace but with all of these.

Having the Peace of Jesus

Put God and Jesus first in your heart and in your day.

Examine God’s promises to care for you; continue to pray.

Always trust that God will walk with you along a troubled way.

Claim your gift of Jesus’ peace and keep worry and fear away.

Encourage others as you share your peace. “Shalom”, you say.

For me one of the most peaceful times of day is the sunrise. A new day is born, and I can feel God close. What do you think of when you imagine peace? Do you have a special place that feels peaceful? Or is it a certain time of day? Or are you doing a particular activity?

This week draw a picture of your peaceful place, time or activity. Share it with your parents and talk with them about why it is peaceful to you. You can ask them to share their peaceful place, time, or activity. Share in the peace of Jesus together.

Shalom! Blessings of peace, harmony, wholeness, completeness, success, good life and calmness!