Dr. Stanley speaks of Jesus Christ as the Prince of Peace and explains how we can find inner contentment and true rest through a personal relationship with Him. Don’t let things like anger, lust, or bitterness steal your peace. Learn how to trust God and let Him calm your soul with His soothing presence.
Sermon Outline
Do you sometimes feel as if there’s no escape from problems and stress? Ever since the fall of mankind, all of creation has been groaning and suffering (Rom. 8:22). But even in difficult times, Christians can have real peace. This week, Dr. Stanley talks about how to find it.
Key Passage: John 14:27
Do you have peace in your heart today—not the fleeting happiness that depends on everything going right, but a settled assurance that whatever you face, it will be okay because Christ is in you?
►“The world can’t give the kind of peace that Jesus offers.”
Jesus is the only source of true peace (John 14:27).
Most people lack peace, whether it’s in their job, marriage, family, or other important aspects of life.
The world offers many counterfeits, but there is only one narrow path to peace.
Peace is not something we can create; it’s a gift Jesus gives us.
When Christ comes into our life, He satisfies our deepest longings.
You might not have everything you want, but you can still have complete peace in God.
True peace depends on a relationship with Jesus, not a relationship plus anything else.
►“You don’t have peace with God if you’re not obedient to God. It’s impossible.”
Some peace stealers include …
Lustful thoughts—Dwelling on sensual things creates chaos in our soul, not peace.
Guilt—If we feel guilt over something we said, did, or should have done, we will not have peace.
Anger—This emotion will gnaw away at our heart. We cannot have peace if we’re angry with another person, no matter the reason.
Bitterness—Feeling bitter about the past will prevent us from experiencing the harmony our Father offers.
Self-centeredness—When we’re all wrapped up in ourselves, we aren’t resting in God’s care.
Doubt—Questioning that God cares or that He’ll answer our prayers prevents us from finding rest.
Unbelief—Those who are not believers have no true happiness. They lack the one essential source of peace: a relationship with Christ.
Jealousy—When we envy others for what they have, we abandon our sense of peace and contentment.
► “Whatever comes your way, you can respond with this absolute certainty: ‘The Lord Jesus will see me through it.’”
We experience peace by …
Believing God is in control. Otherwise, we strive to be in charge, and there is no peace in that struggle.
Trusting that Christ’s offer of peace is real. We must believe and accept this regardless of our feelings.
Surrendering fully to Jesus as Lord. This includes our character, conversation, and conduct.
After Watching
The Greek word for “peace” is eiréné, which means “to join” or “to tie together into a whole.” If you struggle with feelings of anxiety or worry, get a length of rope or string and tie several knots in it. Hold it as you pray John 14:27, and let it remind you that God’s peace gives you a sense of wholeness.
Which of the peace stealers discussed today do you struggle with most? Is it guilt? Doubt? Jealousy? Anger? Take a few moments to seek the Lord’s help in prayer so you can begin to resolve the issue.
This post is a part of the series Expressing Godly Character.
