Post-Election Peace

Post-Election Peace. These days, there is so much worldly turbulence that it can seem hard to find common ground with others, even those we have known for many years. It is also difficult to find respite from the bustle of human chaos we are all faced with. Hardly a day goes by without hearing about discord all around us including personal and news reports of political malice, violent protests, even anarchy in the streets, especially via 24/7 news. Yes, these days there is so much socio-political strife, as people hold on, figuratively with both hands in double clenched fists, to long held grievances and opinions as they express and embrace their earthly loyalties. Sometimes it is just best to agree to disagree.

With the advent of disinformation and "fake news," which has probably been going on far longer than anyone will ever admit, it makes it even harder to have a clear idea of what and whom we really believe in, or stand for, in solidarity. Clearly, it all sets the stage for great confusion - which is something that is far from God's loving plan for each of us. Sad but true, we are in what I call the Truth Famine - A time where the essence of truth is averted, diverted, and even omitted, keeping it out of sight for many. These days no one on either side of the aisle can say with surety that they know worldly "truth," as truth has become distorted in the age of new media.

"For God is not a God of disorder but of peace - as in all the congregations of the Lord's people."I Corinthians 14:33

During such tumultuous times, peace may feel like an elusive butterfly, an illusion beyond our reach. Yet other times peace is well within our daily experience. For many, peace is the absence of mayhem and confusion. For others, it is a sort of contentment and tranquility that permeates every fiber of one's being, a feeling that all is well in our sphere. Finding true peace rests in the quiet knowing that things will work out, that we are loved and lovable, that God is in control. For Christian believers, that knowing rests in having a personal relationship that is like no other, one with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Yet, what is transpiring in the world these days, the turbulence and torment is biblical and not a surprise to those who closely adhere to the Christian faith. For when we read the Bible we learn that there will be accelerated strife and chaos as time goes on. There will be a breakdown in relationships - even close family relationships - violence, plagues, scourges, earthquakes, famines, and the like. It can seem at times that it is every man for himself, as civility waxes and wanes. As Bible reading Christians, we have the privilege of knowing the full story and the responsibility to work for peace. The truth is, despite how it may seem, we are never as alone as we feel as Jesus is with us always - in good times and tough times. Omnipotent Almighty, He is in control of our lives and our surroundings, working all things out for the best for those who are called according to His purpose.

No, we don't need to grieve this world even in this time of great turmoil and upheaval. But we need to adopt a strategy for peace in our lives. I, for one, plan to take in less news, immerse more fully in the Word, and pray more often; for through the Holy Bible, God has prepared us well to look for the good around us, the silver linings in every circumstance, even in times of significant adversity. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we have a Savior who goes before us to pave the way for us day-by-day, hour-by-hour and into the night as well. We have a Lord who fights our battles with us and for us for the asking, protecting, defending and comforting at every turn.

To keep peace within our own hearts and minds, we simply need to ask Jesus to be with us and our loved ones, hand Him the reigns of our lives, try our best to keep our eyes squarely focused on Him, and the rest will take care of itself.

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

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