Dear Friends,

When was the last time you felt at peace? Where were you?

Think about how that felt. Perhaps it’s been so long you can’t remember. Sadly, you are not alone. We live in an age of plenty and stress seems to be in plentiful supply as well.

Why do people around the world rate the level of stress they live with at all-time highs?

Why do countries with more seem to be dying from deaths of despair?

The Bible tells us we must pursue peace. If we don’t, we will learn to live with a level of anxiety and conflict that is neither holy nor healthy.

1 Peter 3:10 For, the one who desires life, to love and see good days, must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit. 11 He must turn away from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it.

If you want to really live the life God has for you then you must pursue peace. This is not automatic.

Romans 14:19 So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.

If you can’t remember the last time you had peace if you or anyone you know struggles with anxiety. Come and bring them this Sunday.

I will teach on the Simplicity of peace.

Blessings,

Joe

Please read the scripture and answer the questions below.

 

 

What is the relationship between peace and joy?

Romans 14:17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

 

 

 

Can you have one without the other?

 

 

 

Do people have more stress in this time and culture than the past?

 

 

 

How is stress and anxiety different in this time and culture?

 

 

 

What role does stress-induced anxiety play in addiction, suicide, obesity, and depression?

 

 

How is the peace Jesus gives different from the world’s versions?

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do, I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.

 

 

 

 

What gets in the way of your peace?

Romans 14:19 So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.

 

 

 

Looking at your schedules and priorities how serious are you about the pursuit of peace?

Please rate on a scale from 1 to 10.

1 Peter 3:10-11 For, the one who desires life, to love and see good days, must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit. 11 He must turn away from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it.

 

 

 

What radical changes would need to happen if you and your family truly pursued peace?