Some people believe that if they have a certain level of wealth, then they will have peace—or if they marry right, then they will know contentment. Others mistakenly believe that if they can just live in some ideal location or receive certain recognition at work, then they will have all they could ever hope to achieve.

However, none of these scenarios is capable of providing the peace and contentment we long to experience. True peace only comes as a result of living a life filled with the Spirit of God through a relationship with Jesus Christ. Charles Spurgeon writes, “The God of peace gives perfect peace to those whose hearts are fixed upon Him.”

We can try to achieve peace through accomplishments and hard work. We may look for peace everywhere—thinking that new experiences, buying things or stashing money away will deliver peace. However, apart from God, we will never find lasting peace.

In order to experience the peace of God, we first must have peace with God—which comes as the result of a complete surrender to Christ as our Lord and Savior.

Once we are saved, God’s peace is available to us. A famous actress once lamented that she had everything she could possibly want, but she still did not have a sense of peace. There are some things that money cannot buy, and peace is one of them.

Before His death, Jesus comforted His disciples with these words:

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. —John 14:27

We, too, can find the peace and comfort we need within His eternal care.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for the peace You offer me as Your child. I know the world can never offer the peace that can be found only in You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. —Philippians 4:7