Verse: John 14:27
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.
Devotion
Every word of this verse is GOLD. I love this verse. It’s been one of my favorites for years. I love the fact that he leaves us HIS peace. That is so powerful. But today, the part that is jumping off the page to me is this: “I do not give as the world gives.”
Wow. Think about that. How does the world give? Often the world gives with strings attached. Often something is given, but something is expected in return. Often when something is given, you know you will be made to feel indebted to that person. Often something is given, but it’s given carefully – it’s given in an affordable, budgeted way.
When Jesus gives, he doesn’t give as the world gives. He gives unconditionally. He expects and demands nothing in return. When Jesus gives, his gift is just that: a gift. It is free. Free of strings attached. Free of guilt. Free of indebtedness.
When Jesus gives he doesn’t give as the world gives. He gives abundantly. He doesn’t figure out how much he can afford to give. He doesn’t give on a budget. He gives extravagantly. Romans 8:32 tells us “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” Jesus is the most generous person we will ever know.
When Jesus gives he doesn’t give as the world gives. Isn’t that comforting? This morning let that be the truth that speaks to your heart. Wherever you are experiencing lack in your life, know that Jesus is perfectly generous. Wherever you are feeling a lack of peace, invite Jesus to abundantly share his peace with you. Don’t be troubled. The generous, gracious, abundant God of your heart is with you.
Prayer
I pray that you would help me to see more and more how you are generously giving me your peace.
Author: Christian Dunn
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