ICS Daily Devotions
Accessing Peace during Tribulations
Romans 5:1-3 (NKJV) Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom ALSO we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; (emphasis added)
The word “ALSO” above reveals to us a second benefit after being declared righteous by the finished work of Jesus Christ.
The second benefit is the ability to access by faith the grace of God to sustain us when we are hard pressed on every side especially during tribulations. We can invite God into our lives during our tribulations for Him to help and strengthen us. Now that we stand in favor with God just as Jesus Christ is the highly favored of God, we will have the strength to face up to every situation that comes our way including everything that has been brought about by COVID-19.
Do you know what is lacking in the world now? PEACE. There are lots of turmoil brought about by Covid-19. It has brought about mental stress on many people because of the quarantines, the lockdowns, the inability to meet with friends and visit our loved ones. The work from home arrangement has also brought about strain in family relationships. Besides China, the global economy continues to be under performing and people have been made redundant in their jobs. These add onto the stress and challenges in the family. While most of us will not be able to play a big part in the recovery of the global economy, we can definitely ensure that the PEACE in our lives, the environment around us and our home will not be stolen. We are able to cry out to God, invite Him into our situation and believe that His grace for our lives will carry us through!
We need to have the peace of mind knowing that our loved ones are well and protected when we are separated by distance. We need to experience peace in our minds as the economy is taking longer than expected to recover. We need peace in every country so that we will be able to experience normalcy in life. However, there is one form of peace that is within our reach if we are to work on it diligently. It is the peace in our homes and any other environment where God has placed us. We need peace in our relationships in a home environment, interpersonal relationships amongst believers and at our workplaces. Peace is the most priceless gift in a home especially during times of turmoil and tribulation.
Sermon Series: Peacemaker (2020-12-20)
