Peace at all Times (2 Thes 3:16)

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way" - 2 Thessalonians 3:16

The peace that comes from God is unknown apart from Christ. The peace of the world is based upon circumstances:

"When I get this job, then I'll have peace."

"When I get healed, then I'll have peace."

"When the chaos around me calms down, then I'll have peace."

By contrast, the peace of God has nothing to do with circumstances. The peace of God has everything to do with the completed work of Christ on the Cross.

This peace cannot be known until it is experienced. And it cannot be experienced until we find ourselves surrounded by chaos. Anyone can find peace when they are wealthy, healthy, and comfortable. No one thinks they need God's peace during times like these.

But to be poor, sick, and distressed, and yet still have peace? This is the peace that can only come from God.

Sometimes God will allow us to endure these seasons of chaos in order to reveal His peace to us. He will allow the difficulty of our lives to be ramped up so that there can be no doubt where the source of our peace lies.

Let us not seek His peace only when our backs are against the wall, but at all times during all seasons.

Not that I am speaking of being in need,

for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.

I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound.

In any and every circumstance,

I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Phil 4:11-13