Finding - Life Application Study Bible Devotional
Finding
John 14:27-31, NLT
I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. 28Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really loved me, you would be happy that I am going to the Father, who is greater than I am. 29I have told you these things before they happen so that when they do happen, you will believe. 30I don’t have much more time to talk to you, because the ruler of this world approaches. He has no power over me, 31but I will do what the Father requires of me, so that the world will know that I love the Father. Come, let’s be going.
Setting the Scene
Jesus’ gift to the disciples was peace. Jesus wasn’t promising the absence of trouble; in fact, in the coming hours he personally would endure great physical, emotional, and spiritual struggles. Instead, Jesus was promising to give these men peace during those conflicts and problems. They could know that he was with them, that what they stood for and lived for was true, that God was in control, and that their eternal destiny was secure.
As long as Jesus was present with the disciples physically, they could rely on the peace and security he brought them. But what would they do when they had to face problems without him? Along with his continued presence through the Holy Spirit, he promised his peace. This would be a vital resource for the disciples in the days and years to come. Later he told them, “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NLT).
Jesus told the disciples about his imminent departure and return so they would not be surprised and fearful when these events occurred. Instead, they would recognize that Jesus knew what would happen, and they would have confidence in him. Jesus wanted them to have peace and not be “troubled and afraid.”
Getting Personal
What conflicts and problems are you facing? How can remembering what Jesus experienced give you peace?
What threats, real or imagined, keep you up at night? How can knowing who Jesus is and what he has promised calm your fears and give you hope?
How do you rely on the Holy Spirit to keep you calm and confident during difficult times?
Jesus knew what would happen to the disciples—that their lives and dreams would be shattered. Jesus was preparing them for those difficult hours and days . . . and years. Every day, we face struggles, conflicts, tragedies, and broken dreams. At every turn, Jesus assures us of his presence and promise.
Talking to God
God sees the big picture and retains control, even when circumstances or relationships are stressful. Thank God for his sovereignty over all things and ask him to help you rely on his strength in every situation.
