As Paul faced his court trial in Rome, he was held under horrible conditions (see Philippians 1:13-14). He was guarded around the clock by soldiers of the Praetorian guard, his feet chained to a soldier on either side. These men were crude, hardened, cursing frequently. They’d seen it all, and to them in their line of work, every jailed man was a guilty criminal, including Paul.
In my travels around the world I have witnessed a “spiritual tsunami” of evil drifting. Entire denominations have been caught up in the waves of this tsunami, leaving in their wake the ruins of apathy. The Bible warns clearly that it’s possible for devoted believers to drift from Christ.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
Say to those who have an anxious heart, “Be strong; fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you.”
Hard times are coming, and the next generation of young people need to know that the only thing they need to fear is living in fear — cowering and retreating from the glorious gospel that Jesus has equipped you to share with others.
But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled.
And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried.
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you” (John 14:27).
We know Christ was capable of anger and at times he was moved to tears. But mostly, he led his life on earth as a man of peace. He had peace with the Father, peace in the face of temptation, peace in times of rejection and mockery. He even had peace during storms at sea, sleeping on the deck of the boat while others trembled with terror.