Pastor's Corner

We are all tempted to be afraid on occasion, especially in the world we are living in today. Jesus spoke to the idea of fear, saying "Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (Jn. 14:27).

We are not to be afraid. In place of fear, we are to trust the Lord and receive the peace He gives. Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you" Jn. 14:27.

Jesus Christ has the authority as the Son of God and the Prince of Peace to give us peace. The peace He gives is described as "the peace of God which transcends all understanding." His peace is higher, better, and more excellent than fear. It is a miraculous peace. We receive God's peace when we place our trust in Jesus as our Savior. We are promised, "Greater is He that is in you than he (the evil one) that is in the world"1 Jn. 4:4.

The Lord holds us up and over our fears, much like a father would carry his small child through a brisk stream. He leads us in His presence until the storm passes by. "Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God. And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours]" Philippians 4:6-7, amplified version.

Pastor Greg Brownell

Dayton United Brethren Church