Better is a dry morsel with quietness, than a house full of feasting with strife.
(Prov. 17:1)
When my children were very young, our family lived about ten miles from the closest highway. The water to our home was supplied by a well, and all of the utilities depended upon electricity. In January and February, the temperature was quite cold, but one year we had an ice storm that surpassed anything we had experienced before. All of the power lines in our area broke from the ice, which eliminated the heat and water at our house. Because we lived so far from our local town, our road was last on the list to be cleared. For almost a week we were stranded.
We were blessed to have a fireplace in our home and plenty of wood. Even though the temperature was below zero outside, we were able to stay moderately warm with our fireplace and heavy clothing. The first few hours were exciting, but as we realized the severity of our situation, the next two days became intense. Without modern bathrooms, a microwave, a television, or any of the comforts we were accustomed to, tensions were high. But on the third day, we started adjusting to our circumstances. We found a puzzle and by candlelight, the family developed a closeness that hadn’t existed before. For the next three days, our hearts connected and when the electricity returned at the end of the week, my children cried. It is true that a dry morsel with quietness is better than a house full of feasting with strife.
Thirty years ago computers didn’t exist. Twenty years ago we were told that the computers of the future would ease the workload and give us more time off. Ten years ago personal cell phones, laptops, and satellite technology developed at such a pace that the products in the store were outdated before they were sold. And today, the average American is working more hours than previous generations. Suicides and bankruptcies are at an all time high. The divorce rate is escalating and young adults are struggling trying to find out who they are. With all of our progress, man has developed everything except peace. Why is this? The answer is quite simple. True peace only comes from God.
Jesus said that He came to earth to give us peace. But then He went on to say that the peace He had was not like the peace the world has. His peace is not dependant upon where you live or what you have. His peace is based on your faith in God, and it is available to everyone who will receive it.
Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
(John 14:27)
So today, let me ask you this question. With all of the advancements in technology that you experience in your daily life, with all of the things that you take for granted that would have been considered science fiction by your grandfather, do you have any more peace?
Hebrews 4:9 says, “There remains therefore a rest for the people of God.”
Do not be deceived. Peace and rest will never be attained by the acquisition of material things. But true peace and rest is available for all who will receive it. And the key to unlock it is – faith.
Dr. Larry Ollison is founder and Senior Pastor of Walk on the Water Faith Church and founder of Larry Ollison Ministries. With over forty years in the ministry, he is a very popular speaker nationally and internationally and ministers the Word of Faith through radio, television, Internet, and daily e-mail devotionals. As the author of twelve books (including The Power of Grace, The Practical Handbook for Christian Living, Breaking the Cycle of Offense, Life is in the Blood, and recently released The Paradise of God), he is in frequent demand for radio/TV interviews, book signings, and magazine publications.
Dr. Ollison was raised a Southern Baptist. While majoring in theology at Southwest Baptist University, he received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. For many years he traveled extensively speaking at Full Gospel Business Men's meetings and conventions. He later earned an M.A. in Theology and a Ph.D. and Th.D. from Life Christian University.
Currently President of International Convention of Faith Ministries (ICFM), Dr. Ollison is also Vice-President of Spirit FM Christian Radio Network, Missouri State Director of Christians United for Israel (CUFI), and a Trustee on the boards of several international ministries. He is also the host of The Cutting Edge Radio Broadcast and authors The Cutting Edge Daily Devotional.
As the owner of a marine dealership, his extensive business background brings a unique flavor to his teaching. He founded and served as chairman of the Missouri State Marine Board, President of the Marine Dealers’ Association, Vice-President of a bank holding company, along with holding several directorships in various corporations.
Dr. Ollison's strongest areas of teaching are the blood of Jesus, faith, relationships, the Hebrew language, the Holy Spirit, the end times, and heaven. During ministry, he operates freely in the gifts of the Holy Spirit. His use of humor and his ability to make a theological concept simple makes it enjoyable and easy for everyone to understand. Countless testimonies have been received from people who say their lives have been changed after experiencing Dr. Ollison's unique ministry.
Dr. Ollison is a pastor, pilot, teacher, and author. His number one goal is to meet the needs of the people through the teaching of faith in God's Word. He and his wife, Loretta, have two children and six grandchildren.