With And In Spite Of!

Sometimes we have choices between things and it is one or the other. Other times we may have no choice, but are left to simply accept things as they come. However, it is also possible that two things may come that would seem to detract from each other, but blessing is a part of the experience anyway. It can be one with the other!

As Peter began his first letter, he stated his desire for those to whom he wrote that “GRACE AND PEACE be multiplied to” them. ( 1 Peter 1:2) GRACE AND PEACE are certainly wonderful experiences of life. Oh, to have such in abundance as we go from day to day. However, as Peter’s letter continued he told his readers to “not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you” as if it was something strange. ( 1 Peter 4:12) In other words, in the walk in Christ there was testing they could anticipate. Would that not mean the loss of PEACE? Peter also went on to urge them to rejoice in this connection with Christ. ( 1 Peter 4:13)

On the one hand Peter stated his desire for them to experience PEACE and then he pointed to the expectation of what might be seen as a lack of it. Is it one or the other or is there a sense in which both can be the experience at the same time? Perhaps that depends on our view of the source of GRACE AND PEACE. Is not God the source of GRACE through Jesus Christ? Is that not also where PEACE is found even when things around us may not be peaceful? That appears to be the encouragement Jesus offered Peter and the rest of the disciples prior to His arrest and crucifixion.

As Jesus warned of the events to come He stated…
“I have said these things to you, that IN ME YOU MAY HAVE PEACE. IN THE WORLD YOU WILL HAVE TRIBULATION. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” ( John 16:33 ESV)

PEACE AND TRIBULATION! PEACE AND TRIALS! Both would be their experience because of their focus on Jesus. However, as they went through the challenges to their faith, it would only be through continuing to focus on Jesus that PEACE would be retained. It was this same focus of TRUSTING FAITH Jesus modeled for us and to which Peter pointed his readers toward.

Back to Peter’s letter we read…
“(21) For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. (22) He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. (23) When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, BUT CONTINUED ENTRUSTING HIMSELF TO HIM WHO JUDGES JUSTLY.” ( 1 Peter 2:21-23 ESV)

PEACE in spite of persecution. PEACE from a sense of calming relief gained through TRUSTINGLY leaving it in the hands of another; to God Who is all powerful and ultimately has all under His control. This is the blessing when keeping the life focus where it needs to be. Let us ENTRUST our life and its concerns to the hands of God so that even with and in spite of life’s challenges we may continue to experience the PEACE OF GOD that surpasses all understanding. ( Philippians 4:7) It is one of His precious blessings for even this life!

Have a great day WITH GOD’S PEACE GUARDING OUR HEARTS AND MINDS IN CHRIST!
Carl

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