Peace is Found as We Surrender to Jesus
Then he said to them all, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23 NRSV
Series: Cultivating a Heart of Peace
Devotional: 2 of 7
Last week, we examined how the world, whose value systems are set against the Way of Jesus and His Kingdom, would have us believe that finding inner peace is accomplished by looking within ourselves. In contrast, for those who have chosen to put their faith and hope in Jesus, He alone is our one (and only) source of peace, both in this life and the life to come.
With the foundational truth that Jesus is our sole source of peace, we can safely explore our role in becoming a person of peace as we seek to cooperate with the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. Daily we are invited to take on the posture of a servant denying ourselves, and taking up our cross as we seek to follow Jesus (See Luke 9:23). From this posture of self-denial, the Holy Spirit is free to cultivate the fruit of peace in our hearts through practices like meditating on God's Word, solitude & silence, practicing the presence of God, and gathering in community with other believers.
In contrast, the world would have us believe that practices like meditation, living in the present, spending time in nature, and being more grateful will bring the peace already deep within us to the surface. Again, the world would have us believe that through these practices, inner peace can be found and maintained through equanimity. Equanimity is defined as a skill a person can learn to keep calm and balanced regardless of their life circumstances.
At first glance, these two lists of practices may seem similar. However, the world would love to convince us that the human mind can find inner peace through increased control and habit formation. But for the apprentice of Jesus, peace is found in complete surrender to Jesus, His ways, and His Kingdom.
As you go, consider what practices God might be leading you into to cultivate the fruit of peace in your life? Additionally, how might the Holy Spirit be inviting you to move from a posture of control to surrender?
OnThe3rdDay Devotionals
Devotionals that illustrate Biblical principles in a simple and short format that can be applied to your everyday life.
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