Peace in the Hard Times
by Matt Cobb
We all want to have unshakable peace, but let’s be honest—sometimes, we struggle. Like the time I decided to “trust God” with my stress, only to find myself up at 3 a.m., doom-scrolling conspiracy theories, convincing myself that a weird stomach ache meant I had some rare, tropical disease. Spoiler alert: It was just too many hot wings.
Life is full of uncertainties—hardships, unexpected changes, and moments of deep distress. In these times, finding peace can seem impossible. Yet, the Bible offers timeless wisdom and encouragement, reminding us that true peace isn’t found in our circumstances but in God Himself.
The Source of True Peace
Jesus reassured His followers with these profound words:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27)
The peace that Jesus offers is unlike anything the world can provide. Worldly peace is often fragile, dependent on circumstances, fleeting comforts, or temporary resolutions. It comes and goes with the rise and fall of situations, offering only momentary relief. But the peace of Christ is different—it is a deep, abiding tranquility that remains steadfast regardless of life’s storms.
This divine peace is rooted not in the absence of trouble, but in the presence of God. It flows from an unshakable trust in His sovereignty, His love, and His perfect plan. Even in times of uncertainty, hardship, or suffering, Jesus assures us that His peace is available—a peace that transcends human understanding (Philippians 4:7). It is the kind of peace that allows us to walk through trials with courage, knowing that we are never alone.
It is because of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus that this kind of unshakable peace is available to us. When we put our faith - all of our hope, trust, and confidence - in the gospel, we have a firm foundation. When the source of our hope is the reality that the Son of God loved us, gave Himself for us, and rescued us from our failure and sin, and that He has secured life with God for all those who call on Him as Lord, we gain access to that peace.
Jesus did not promise a life free from challenges, but He did promise His unwavering presence. When fear, anxiety, or worry creep into our hearts, we can hold onto His words, reminding ourselves that He has already overcome the world (John 16:33). His peace is not an escape from reality but a sustaining power within it.
As we abide in Him, trusting His promises and surrendering our burdens, we experience the fullness of this supernatural peace – a peace that guards our hearts, renews our minds, and anchors our souls, no matter what may come.
Trusting God in Uncertain Times
When life feels overwhelming and uncertain, Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in God wholeheartedly rather than relying on our limited understanding. Trusting Him means surrendering control, believing that He is guiding us even when we can’t see the full picture. When we acknowledge Him in all our ways—seeking His wisdom and depending on His strength—He promises to direct our paths. Though His guidance may not always align with our expectations, His ways are always higher, leading us toward His perfect plan.
This truth is beautifully illustrated in Mark 4:39, when Jesus calmed the raging storm with the words, “Peace! Be still!” Just as He had power over the wind and waves, He also has the authority to bring peace to our troubled hearts. The disciples, gripped by fear, failed to see that their security was not in the absence of the storm but in the presence of Jesus. In the same way, our peace comes not from our circumstances but from trusting that God is always in control. When we let go of fear and place our confidence in Him, He leads us forward with unwavering faithfulness.
Prayer as a Path to Peace
Worry and anxiety can weigh heavily on our hearts, clouding our minds with fear and uncertainty. Yet, Philippians 4:6-7 offers a powerful alternative—turning to God in prayer. Instead of being consumed by anxious thoughts, we are called to bring everything before Him with a heart of gratitude and trust. Prayer is not just a way to express our concerns but a means of surrendering them to the One who is fully in control. When we approach God with thanksgiving, even in difficult moments, we shift our focus from our problems to His faithfulness, allowing His presence to bring comfort and assurance.
In response to our trust, God gives us something far greater than mere relief—He grants us a peace that surpasses all understanding. This peace is not dependent on circumstances but is a supernatural gift that guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. It protects us from being overwhelmed by fear and reminds us that we are never alone. Even when life feels uncertain, we can rest in the promise that God is at work, sustaining us and guiding us through every challenge. His peace is an anchor, keeping us steady in the midst of life's storms.
Fixing Our Minds on God
Our thoughts have a powerful influence on our peace, shaping how we respond to life’s challenges. Isaiah 26:3 reminds us that perfect peace comes when our minds remain fixed on God, trusting in His wisdom and sovereignty. When we dwell on our worries, fears, or uncertainties, anxiety takes root. But when we shift our focus to God—His goodness, His promises, and His faithfulness—we cultivate a peace that is unshaken by external circumstances. Keeping our minds on Him is an act of trust, a choice to believe that He is greater than any storm we face.
One of the most effective ways to keep our minds on God is by meditating on His Word. Scripture fills our hearts with truth, reminding us of His steadfast love and guiding us through uncertainty. When we consistently seek Him through prayer, worship, and reflection on His promises, we build a foundation of peace that cannot be easily shaken. This doesn’t mean troubles won’t come, but it means that when they do, we will be anchored in God’s unchanging presence. His peace is not fleeting; it is a deep, abiding confidence that no matter what happens, He is in control.
No matter what you are facing, God is near. His peace is available to you, not as a fleeting feeling, but as a firm foundation. Take time to pray, immerse yourself in His Word, and trust that He is working all things together for good (Romans 8:28).
The truth is, no matter how much we want to trust God, our minds love to take detours into anxiety. But thankfully, God’s peace isn’t based on our ability to stay calm—it’s about His promise to carry us through, even when we’re a mess. Even amid storms, His peace can calm your heart. You are never alone—God is with you, offering His perfect peace. So next time you find yourself spiraling, just remember: If God can handle the whole universe, He can probably handle your Tuesday.
Which of these scriptures resonates with you the most today? Let’s walk this journey of faith together. Amen?