John 14:27 | Philippians 4:7 | Colossians 3:15 | Ephesians 2:14
Peace!
Have you ever stayed awake wondering what to do? Decisions are hard, but God wants us to have peace. Jesus gives this peace to his followers today like he did years ago.
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
John 14:27 NLT
At the time, Jesus was preparing his disciples for the unthinkable events that would take place over the next day–his own arrest, trials, and crucifixion. He had come to Jerusalem as a king and heralded as the Messiah, but now he would be executed as a criminal. He wanted them to know they could trust him; that he is who he said he is.
Jesus gives his followers today that same peace. When our skies darken and we’re getting soaked, slogging muddily on our way to who-knows-what’s next, we can trust that following him is not a mistake. And as we learn to pray and tell God our worries and needs, we experience this mind-blowing peace!
Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7 NLT
There you are, standing at a crossroads. Neither way seems perfect, so you weigh the pros and cons of each. You ask for advice from trusted friends. Have you prayed about it? You may need to do so more than once. Then, finally, go with the decision that gives you peace.
And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
Colossians 3:15 NLT
But wait–there’s more! When you are part of the body of Christ, you are not alone. Trusting God with this decision brings you not only internal peace, but also peace among other believers.
For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us.
Ephesians 2:14 NLT
Tough decision? Take a deep breath. Pray. Seek wise counsel. And decide in peace.
Questions for Group Discussion
- How do you know when you have peace about a decision? Can you give any examples?
- What is it like NOT to have peace about a decision?
- What if you know what is the right thing to do, but you’re still apprehensive about doing it–does that mean you don’t have peace about it? Do you have to be full-on super chill to have peace about something?
Application: For the Record
You’re going to need a voice recorder for this. If you want to go old-school, use a tape recorder. Otherwise, a mobile app will work.
Your assignment: record a description of the toughest decision you’ve ever had to make, OR a tough decision you are facing right now. Include the following information…
- Basic details – when, where, who else, etc.
- Steps you took to come to a decision – prayer, asking for advice, etc.
- How you felt about the decision you made – whether you had peace about it
- The outcome of the decision or, if it’s a current one, the outcome you hope for
Listen to your recording, share it if you like, then put it away. One month later (or more, if you can wait that long), listen to it again and record an addendum. Add any wisdom or insight you have gained about the decision since you recorded it the first time.
