“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” – Jesus, John 16:33 ESV

When we decide to follow Jesus, we are promised a certain kind of peace. If you don’t know the true depth of peace Jesus offers, you might be disappointed initially to realize Jesus doesn’t make life peaceful by taking away our pain. However, you’ll soon discover that what He does is much more effective and immutable.

When we look at the world through human eyes, life can look pretty chaotic. Our circumstances and hardships seem insurmountable. But when we look through God’s eyes, we learn that our peace isn’t dictated by our circumstances. True peace is tied to Someone much more permanent. It’s tied to the One, who being peace Himself, holds our hands through every hill and valley. Peace comes from knowing that your hope is in God, and your security as His daughter is never in question. 

Psalm 16, entitled “You Will Not Abandon My Soul,” perfectly conveys this idea. Read this out loud over yourself, and rest in the comfort that God never abandons His children. 

Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.

I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord;

     I have no good apart from you.”

As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones,

     in whom is all my delight.

The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply;

     their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out

     or take their names on my lips.

The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup;

     you hold my lot.

The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;

     indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.

I bless the Lord who gives me counsel;

     in the night also my heart instructs me.

I have set the Lord always before me;

     because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.

Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;

     my flesh also dwells secure.

For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,

     or let your holy one see corruption.

You make known to me the path of life;

     in your presence there is fullness of joy;

     at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Psalm 16 ESV