Dear Friends,
I am writing this from Jerusalem, the spiritual capital of the world, where we are privileged to be for three weeks.
It is not only the spiritual capital, but also a hub of national and international political, social, and business interactions. Great world powers and world religions are battling for ascendancy, and we feel it in the atmosphere and see it in the physical realm. Of course this is true not only in Jerusalem, but right where you live.
This ongoing battle is unsettling and wearing, and we often crave and need reminders and reassurance that we are okay, and that things will turn out right. What we get from the internet and even trusted friends is not enough. We need something completely reliable to hold us steady and keep us in peace.
II Peter 3:14 tells us to “give diligence that you may be found in peace.”
This tells us at least two things. First, peace is not automatic or random. It is available, but WE need to do something about it. Second, through His Word God is telling us that He wants us to have peace. It’s not just a nice thing if it happens. NO! It’s His desire for His children and we can have it.
A passage that has been keeping me peaceful for the last week or so is Hebrews 12:27-28. In verse 27 the writer describes how God is shaking things. Verse 28 has these rock-solid words: “Wherefore, receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken . . . .” It CANNOT be shaken!
I have many concerns and questions. Things in my experience that rock my boat, and some on the horizon that could rock it more. But I (and you) have and are part of a Kingdom that cannot be shaken, no matter what! Politicians, world rulers, evil powers, or an angry boss cannot shake up our King, or us as His subjects.
Numerous times in the last week or so, this passage has led my mind back to a peaceful place.
Maybe it will not affect you just the same as it affected me, but give diligence to ask and look for what God will use to bring you peace. He wants His children to live in peace.
“Fret not. It tends only to evildoing.” (Psalm 37:8)
“You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You.” (Isaiah 26:3)
Shabbat shalom (Sabbath peace),
Robert Adams
