John 16:1, 33; 17:20 (NLT) I have told you these things so that you won’t abandon your faith. … I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. … I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message.
Four days ago (although it seems like four ages ago), Russia launched a full-scale invasion into Ukraine. My heart aches for the unspeakable tragedies encountered by the Ukrainian people, while at the same time, I am encouraged by the efforts of even the most unlikely of Ukraine’s citizens defending their country. Their bravery and courage stands as an example to us all.
Ukrainians are using some interesting lines of defense. For example, according to some news reports, those who have computer skills are doing their best to serve along the lines of cyber intelligence; those who can shoot a gun, do so; those who are involved in restaurant or food service actively supply troops and needy families; one local brewery has enlisted citizens to help make “Molotov cocktails” which are crude bombs of flammable liquid; while a woman proudly sings the Ukrainian national anthem as she sweeps up broken glass and debris. The point is—each Ukrainian is only doing their part as they have skill or talent to do so.
Now let’s change the subject a bit. My thoughts wonder if our resolve to follow our Lord and Savior run so deep? But you say, “It’s not the same thing. The Ukrainians are actively engaged in REAL physical warfare, we are not.” Perhaps. However, even though they are defending their nation, could we, or would we, stand so up strongly and bravely if we were called to defend Christ? Could we say that each one of us is using our own skills, talents, and abilities in service to our Lord in whatever capacity we are able to do? Are we doing what we can do to contribute to the strength of God’s kingdom? If not, why not?
We are left in the world for a reason. We are to share the gospel message of God’s love and Christ’s sacrifice that all might have a reason for hope through salvation. During times of distress or trouble we are to encourage one another. We are to comfort one another with the peace of God that is so deep the world cannot understand it. We are to actively use whatever skill, talent, or ability God has provided us to further his Kingdom. We are to pray without ceasing. Christ has given us the warning never to abandon our faith but to remember our peace comes through him. Above all else we are reminded that Christ himself has overcome the world. Christ is coming again soon! Will we be actively doing our part until he comes?
Gracious Heavenly Father,
Our hearts are heavy with concern for those who are defending their nation. Grant them strength, courage, hope, and peace. While we do not face those kinds of circumstances in our nation, we do know that you have called us into service for your kingdom. May we be faithful to use the skills, talents, and abilities you have given us. We are humbly grateful that Christ has overcome the world and that we have peace in him.
In the name of Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior, Amen.
The devotional That You Might Have Peace appeared first on Write From My Heart at writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com
email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com
