Enjoy True Peace

Just as the world is starting to walk out of the shadow of the pandemic, we are embroiled in a war that is happening thousands of kilometers away. Globalisation of the economy has caused Singapore to be affected by the war in Ukraine. Drivers were the first to feel the impact of the war. With the rising of oil prices, drivers are feeling the heat. After this, housewives will feel the prowess of the war due to rising prices of daily groceries in the market. Daily household expenses are on the rise. Although we could not put the blame of inflation solely on the Ukrainian war, the war does make matters worse. Optimistically, Russia and Ukraine are in talks of ceasing war between both parties. This gives a glimpse of hope of ending the war. On the other hand, the situation could also worsen, and drag more countries into this turmoil. World peace is under threat. As a Christian, we should pray to God for protection in the present situation, that Russians and Ukrainians as well as their leaders would resolve this predicament peacefully, and that forces from other countries would also utilise logic and reason with the aim ending this war. When we pray, we need to remember the refugees: for Christians in the war to rely on God, and to lean on God’s strength to overcome this crisis; that Christians in the war would show God’s love to the refugees by helping them; that they would see God’s love in times of hardship. “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Tim 2:1-2).

On one hand, we pray for world peace, on the other hand, we should know that real peace comes when the sins of human can be totally resolved. When evil is still active in this world, relationships between humans and with God would never be peaceful. When we believe in the Lord Jesus, He cleanses us of all our sins. This allows us to have peace with God. By living out what was taught in the Bible, we can seriously wage war against the sins in us. Gradually, we can enjoy real peace in human relationships. Of course, we are still living in a world full of sin and would encounter the consequences of other people’s sins. But the peace between us and God would overcome all injustices, struggles, and the harmful things of this world. “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). In these troublous times, this passage provides a precious promise. It is exactly what our non-believing friends need. May we see the urgency of sharing the gospel with them.

The moment we believed in Jesus, we have started our journey to peace. This will lead us to complete peace on the day we meet the Lord Jesus face to face! There will be no more pain, sickness, and sorrow! Ultimately, the Lord Jesus will create a new heaven and new earth. We would enjoy eternal peace with God! “Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and first earth has passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepare as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.” (Rev 21:1-4)

May we find mutual encouragement from the lyrics of Hymn 419 “When we all get to Heaven”

  1. Sing the wondrous love of Jesus,
    Sing His mercy and His grace;
    In the mansions bright and blessed
    He’ll prepare for us a place.

Chorus: When we all get to Heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We’ll sing and shout the victory!

  1. While we walk the pilgrim pathway,
    Clouds will overspread the sky;
    But when trav’ling days are over,
    Not a shadow, not a sigh.
  1. Let us then be true and faithful,
    Trusting, serving every day;
    Just one glimpse of Him in glory
    Will the toils of life repay.

translated by Chew Elaine