If you were to ask anyone what they desire most in life, they would say something similar to “peace and happiness.” These two words are found on so many things, including greeting cards, affirmations, and countless advertisements.
I recently received a card from the Leadership Knoxville organization. Inscribed on the inside of the card was a quote by Robert Fulghum, an American author and minister. It read, “Peace is not something you wish for. It is something you make, something you are, something you do, and something you give away.”
I wonder how many people realize that peace is something that you “give away.” We have no problem with the notion that “peace is something you make,” and our world would be a better place if we all subscribed to the aspiration of making peace across the world.
The Bible describes peace as wholeness, well-being, and a right relationship with God, oneself, and others. It says that “peace is a state deeper than worldly calm, found through faith in the Lord, even amidst trials and empowered by the Holy Spirit as a fruit of spiritual maturity.”
While we should all strive to live harmoniously and seek reconciliation with others, the Bible teaches us a deeper meaning of peace: a rest, quiet or a stillness in one’s heart. It is not merely the absence of trouble, but rather it exists in spite of trouble.
In the absence of peace, it is difficult to find happiness; but where there is peace, you can always find something to be happy about. Often, our difficulties serve as opportunities for growth, producing a steadfastness and a deeper relationship with God that generates lasting peace and happiness.
Let’s not forget that true happiness comes not from worldly circumstances, but from a deep, relationship with God. This kind of happiness allows us to rejoice always, finding joy in trials as a path to spiritual strength. It is a deep, lasting joy that surpasses fleeting worldly pleasures.
Apostle James wrote to the Hebrew people: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” So, where there’s peace and happiness, joy in life can be found through wisdom and faith in God. Be blessed and Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
Dr. Walter Ghosten
