King David wanted to build a beautiful temple for the Lord, but God said no. David saw much conflict and bloodshed in his life. Even from the days of his youth David was a soldier (1 Sam. 17). He fought and conquered foreign enemies (2 Sam. 8:1-14), as well as those from his own household (2 Sam. 18). He would not be the one to build the Lord’s house. For this prestigious assignment God would chose David’s son—Solomon. This name, which the Lord himself chose, is from the Hebrew word “Shalom” which means “peace” (1 Chron. 22:9). Unlike his father David, Solomon would be a man of peace. During Solomon’s reign, the neighboring countries did not even think of invading (they paid him tribute, 1 Kings 4:21), and everyone dwelled in safety (1 Kings 4: 25).

As Solomon brought peace to Israel, so Jesus brings peace to all humankind. Jesus is the real Prince of Peace as Isaiah foretold, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end” (Is. 9:6-7).

Jesus came to us to bring us a peace that surpasses all our understanding (Phil. 4:7). His peace surpasses our understanding because its origin—in His perfect life and death for us—cannot be grasped or understood by our rational minds. Because of its divine origin, this peace from Christ cannot be destroyed by anything. There is no person or power or situation in this world— there is no satanic force from beyond this world—that can take away the peace that Jesus gives you.

Sometimes life is not so peaceful. Chaos seems to reign. Confusion, anger, disappointment, and frustration—all work together to dethrone the Prince of Peace. But they can’t. No matter what turmoil is in your life, you have an inner tranquility and serenity that can never be taken away. Because you have the Prince of Peace, and He will never leave you or forsake you (Deut. 31:6). No matter how out of control your life may seem, Jesus is in control and He loves you. He is your peace (Eph. 2:14).

Jesus knew His crucifixion would be difficult for Him and His disciples. On the evening of Maundy Thursday, He began to prepare them by giving them His peace. “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give you . . . do not be afraid” (John 14:27). So He also prepares us, for whatever turmoil our future holds—by giving us His peace. As St. Paul explains, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6-7).

Prayer: Dear Jesus, bring Your peace into my life. In times of chaos and confusion, remind me that You are in control. Help me to always find comfort and assurance in your loving embrace. Amen.

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Updated: Wednesday June 02, 2010