I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have trouble. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 ESV
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all. 2 Thess. 3:16 ESV
Lord Jesus, it’s only seven days till we in America will elect our next president, and what a journey this election season has been. I’m not sure when I’ve witnessed more fear and anger, spin and denial, armchair quarterbacking and in-your-face politicking—and that’s just among your children! So these two Scriptures are more than helpful and more than needed.
Thank you for speaking peace to our hearts in a world, season, and episode of trouble. If you gave peace for your disciples in the context of their governmental madness, surely you’ll do the same for us. You haven’t just overcome sin for us; you’ve overcome the world for your glory. You haven’t promised us a trouble-less life; but you have promised us a peace-full one. In this world, trouble; in you, peace.
Indeed Jesus, you are “the Lord of peace” Paul was writing about in 2 Thess. 3:16, and you promise to give us “peace at all times in every way.” So over the next 7 days, give us peace with friends with whom we disagree about the best candidate. Give us peace knowing the government of the world is sitting squarely on your shoulders. Give us peace when pundits and prophets seize the moment to sell commercials, books, and themselves.
Jesus, help us to be more preoccupied feeding you in your hunger, relieving your thirst, inviting you in as the stranger, clothing your nakedness, caring for you in your sickness, and visiting you in prison. Indeed, Jesus, let us see you in the least and the lost, and respond accordingly (Matthew 25:35-40). This is what you want; why would we give you less? You’ll take care of all premiers, presidents, and potentates. So very Amen, I pray, in your righteous and reigning name.