Rev 14:6-13 God's Peace or His Wrath

Rev 14:6-13 NIV
Today's reading reminds me of the Gospel from yesterday's service where we heard the story of Jesus calming the wind and the sea. Those who worship the Lord will know peace no matter what the might encounter. No matter what might befall them, they will know the peace that surpasses all understanding because Christ is with them and for them. But, those who worship false gods; anyone who would worship the beast, will know no peace. They will drink the wine of God's fury. They will have no rest by day or night.

May the peace of the Lord be with you always!

God's Peace - Pr. J

Luke 8:22-25 Squalls

Luke 8:22-25 NIV
Ever wonder if maybe God has deserted you. In tough times we might sometimes wonder if that is indeed the case or maybe it's that we've left His side. Whenever I am tempted to start doubting His presence with me, I think about the story of Jesus calming the storm according to St. Luke. Read it. You will see that the squall did not come upon them until after Jesus got into the boat with them and set out on their journey.

Expect some squalls and a variety of other storms. God is with you. He will calm the storms. He will also ride them out with you.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Matthew 8 - Jesus and Storms

Faith is a major theme in our chapter today. Trusting in the LORD to make us whole. In today's reading we find Jesus healing the sick and kicking out demons. He, also, tells everyone that there will be a cost to following him. One must be willing to leave everything else behind them in order to truly follow him.

But, the story from chapter eight that has always really intrigued me is the story of Jesus calming the sea. You see, the part that is often missed in this story is that the storm does not begin until after the disciples follow Jesus on to the boat. They join him on the boat and then the rain comes down, the wind rages, the seas roll. Jesus is resting peacefully as if there is nothing to be worried about and there is not anything for them to worry about. Jesus is with them. He has the power and the authority to calm the most raging of seas.

As we leave behind the safety and comfort of all that we have known to follow Jesus there will be many storms. As you get on board with Jesus you will face many obstacles. But, fear not. Jesus is with you through each and every one of them. He will calm your storms. He will calm your fears. Have faith. He will save you.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Psalm 131 - Calmed and Quieted

Calmed and quieted is what so many of us seek. How do we find this? I have a friend who has vowed off anything that will cause her to lose her serenity. Just back away from those things, even people, who repeatedly and purposely cause undo stress.  Wean yourself from those things that cause discontent and seek those things that bring contentment. And... what is it that brings contentment? Rather, I should ask, "Who is it that bring contentment?" It is the LORD and only the LORD who can do this that can grant you peace of heart and mind. Put your hope in the LORD both now and forevermore. "(Psalm 131:3 NIV)

God's Peace - Pr. J