FREEDOM40 - 40-Day Men’s Challenge to Live in FreedomSample

DAY 17

REFLECT + FOCUS

Peace is not the absence of difficulties and trials; it is living according to the inner source of eternal peace, the Holy Spirit, in the midst of obstacles and storms.

Listen to what Jesus says about peace, just before one of the most troubling episodes for the disciples:

“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 NIV

Jesus doesn’t just tell us we don’t have to worry - he commands us to not worry.

In this sense worry is a sin!

When we worry and fear, we remove our eyes from Him and His promises, and fix them on problems and worries - and meditate on them instead. It’s like idol worship.

Worry and fear are outside of His purpose for us. And because He commands us not to fear or worry, we can trust Him to give us the means, through the Holy Spirit, to remain in peace.

How? Paul gives a powerful promise:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

The peace of God is in us by His Spirit. Through prayer, thanksgiving and worship we allow it to well up into our hearts and minds. Sometimes there is quite a battle to defeat negative emotions and doubts, to allow His peace to reign.

Don’t give up!

Keep thanking, worshiping, and praying in the Holy Spirit until you sense His peace filling your mind and heart.

Jesus also tells us that we can give our peace away to others. As He sends the disciples out He commands them to speak peace over homes:

“If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; if not, it will return to you.”
Luke 10:6 NIV

In Christ, by the Holy Spirit, you carry the very presence and peace of God.

SHOUT

As you declare today’s promise over yourself, allow His peace to fill your heart and mind, and look for opportunities to give that peace away.

The peace of God, which transcends all understanding,
Will guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4, 4 to 8

DISCOVERY BIBLE

Continue to discover God’s heart for us through His word to us in John 14:21-31.

What is God showing you through this passage? Take notes and share some thoughts with your brothers, as you pray for one another.