Pastor Kent Christmas | Looking For Peace | June 17, 2026
Discovering Lasting Peace in a Turbulent World: A Christian Perspective
In a world constantly filled with uncertainty, unrest, and worry, is it any wonder that so many of us are searching for peace? Whether you watch the news, scroll social media, or simply listen to conversations around you, the subject of peace is everywhere—from nations battling in distant lands to individuals wrestling with anxiety in their own homes. For believers, the quest for peace takes on an even deeper meaning. Today, let’s dive into what true, lasting peace looks like from the lens of Scripture, how we can experience it personally through Jesus Christ, and how this peace transforms every aspect of our lives.
The Universal Search for Peace
Peace is a desire written on every human heart. It’s not dependent on nationality, financial status, or background—every person longs for rest from chaos, a sense of wholeness, and the ability to lay their head down at night free from turmoil. Sadly, our modern society often feels more anxious than ever before. Mental health struggles, particularly depression and anxiety, are skyrocketing, and if you look closely, you’ll see just how often these stem from a lack of inner peace.
The Bible is very clear about this connection: “Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” (Proverbs 12:25) In other words, anxiety leads to depression, not the other way around. This is why Scripture firmly instructs us to “be anxious for nothing” (Philippians 4:6). God knows that when our hearts are troubled, we cannot experience the fullness of life He’s designed for us.
Peace That Surpasses Circumstance
We often mistake peace for a temporary calm: an absence of problems at work, harmony in the family, a healthy bank account. Yet, this “worldly peace” is fleeting. It depends entirely on unstable conditions that can shift overnight. Jesus Himself made this distinction clear before returning to the Father. He told His disciples, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)
Worldly peace tells us things are okay because our situation is controlled—but what happens when trouble hits? The Lord offers us something far more secure: peace rooted in His never-changing presence, not in ever-changing circumstances. We can walk through valleys, face unknowns, and endure hardship, yet still experience a supernatural peace when our trust is anchored in Christ.
The Source of True Peace: Jesus Christ
Why can believers experience peace, even in uncertainty? The heart of it lies in the work of Jesus. Scripture tells us in Ephesians, “But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace.” (Ephesians 2:13-14) When Christ died on the cross, He tore down the wall that separated humanity from God—the “veil” in the temple literally split when He died, symbolizing our free access to God’s presence through His sacrifice.
Before Christ, our sin made us God’s enemies, keeping us from truly knowing Him. But as our Mediator, Jesus reconciled us to the Father. Through Him, we’re forgiven, accepted, and embraced as children of God. This foundational peace is not dependent on our efforts, our performance, or how “good” we feel; it’s rooted in the finished work of Jesus and the assurance that we are right with God.
Letting Go of the Past: Resting in God’s Forgiveness
One of the most common obstacles to living in God’s peace is an inability to let go of the past. Many believers carry guilt and shame, wondering if God has really forgiven their sins. Scripture assures us that, through Jesus’ blood, our past no longer defines us: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1) When God forgives, He doesn’t just overlook our mistakes—He removes them completely, choosing not to remember them against us.
The peace of God quiets the inner voice of accusation. It grants confidence that you are fully forgiven, loved, and welcomed in His presence. Instead of rehearsing yesterday’s failures, you can rejoice in God’s grace and live boldly today. That’s true peace!
The Kingdom of God: Righteousness, Joy, and Peace
Paul writes, “The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 14:17) This means God’s kingdom is not about external rituals or rule-keeping. It’s about being made right with God (righteousness), experiencing deep gladness (joy), and living in unshakable peace—all empowered by the Holy Spirit.
When the Holy Spirit fills our lives, He produces peace within us. Even when circumstances don’t change, our hearts do. The indwelling Spirit brings an assurance that God is for us, with us, and working on our behalf. This inner tranquility allows us to face life with resilience, hope, and steadfast faith.
Peace in the Midst of Battles
Some believe that living in God’s peace means never facing trials—but the truth is, every follower of Christ will encounter spiritual battles. Who you are at peace with determines who you are at war with. If you’re at peace with darkness and compromise, you’ll inevitably feel distant from God. But if you’re at peace with God, you must expect resistance from the enemy.
The good news? The peace God gives is greater than any storm Satan can send your way. “Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4) You may find