People in the world are under such intense pressure, they are often hurried, rude, short-tempered and frustrated. They experience financial and marital stress and the stress of raising children in a changing and uncertain world.
Because of mental stress on the job and physical stress from overwork and frayed nerves, some people appear to be time bombs on the verge of explosion!
We as believers do not need to succumb to the stress that affects people "of the world" - people who do not know Jesus as Savior and Lord. We do not have to operate in the world's system by thinking, talking and acting like the people of the world.
In fact our attitude and approach should be entirely different from the world's. We are to be lights in the darkness (Matt. 5:16; Eph. 5:8). It is hard for us to be lights, though, if we are as stressed as the people in the world! God has provided ways for us to live without being affected by that type of stress.
I have learned something in my own pursuit of peace: To enjoy peace, rather than living under the pressure of stress, I must choose in every situation to obey the Lord.
Jesus is the Prince of Peace! Obedience, or following the leading of the Holy Spirit, will always lead us to peace and joy, not to anxiety and frustration.
Through God's Word we can learn more about the Prince of Peace and the inheritance made available to us by Him. We can find and maintain peace and avoid or overcome stress.
Jesus left us with His peace.
Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you.
Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.]
(John 14:27)
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Joyce Meyer is one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers. A New York Times bestselling author, her books have helped millions of people find hope and restoration through Jesus Christ. Through Joyce Meyer Ministries, she teaches on a number of topics with a particular focus on the mind, mouth, moods and attitudes. Her candid communication style allows her to share openly and practically about her experiences so others can apply what she has learned to their lives.
