"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful."

-John 14:27

The age of self has not been very self-serving. Mental health issues like depression and anxiety have drastically increased. A CDC report states that three out of five high school girls have persistent sadness and hopelessness, a roughly 60% increase over the last decade. The world offers psychological bandages, and churches often offer the same. Jesus offers "the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension," which "shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” The world's offer is superficial compared to what the Lord offers, for it cannot produce what it does not have. His peace is not limited to anxiety alone but that which produces both mental health and spiritual welfare. By saying, "My peace," we know His very nature is peace. Therefore, as Christ lives out his life in our life, His peace is ours. What He possesses, we also possess through faith. A peace that is not overcome by our failures, circumstances, or opposition from the world. "Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance." Be encouraged!

Scripture References: John 14:27; Philippians 4:7; 2 Thessalonians 3:16