In the midst of these unfortunate events in our world today, we still must remember that holiness is a requirement.  Be willing today to resist sin and turn away from anything that is not in the will of God.  Keep your mind on Him (who is Peace), and chase after Him.  Delight yourself in the Lord, focus your thoughts toward abiding in His presence, and sing praises unto Him.  Your praise will lift up your spirit, and there you will find peace.

LaPorsha Hill

Perfect peace is only achieved through much prayer, fasting, and studying God’s Word.  These are the fundamentals that will keep us equipped to gracefully handle anything that comes our way in any crisis or pandemic.  Like Paul encouraged the Philippian church to do what they had been taught, let’s continue to do what our Bishop Johnson, and Bishop Bender now instills in us.  With this new day that the Lord has given, let’s read a few extra verses of scripture and add a few more minutes in prayer.  As we do these things by faith, believe that “the God of peace shall be with you.”

Marsha Steele

Pictures of movie stars, singers, and pro-athletes line billboards in cities across the world, and many adoring fans follow their every move on Facebook and Instagram.  Yet, several of these celebrities and their fans share a secret:  264 million people in the world suffer from depression.  The world cannot offer peace, for it can only be found in God; He is the true source of peace.  If you desire to have a good life, both now and in the future, watch the actions of the upright.  Celebrity status and worldliness are temporal, but holy living and integrity will yield peace and joy on earth with eternal reward.         

Sham’Brial Pettway

Can you see Jesus beyond the babe in a manger, the carpenter’s son, or just one of the prophets?  While many in Jesus’ day chose to limit Him in their minds to just a man, the Apostle Peter through divine revelation, knew who Jesus was (Matthew 16:17).  He explained that grace and peace are multiplied through the knowledge of Jesus Christ.  We learn more and more about the Peacegiver when we learn how to approach Jesus.  Lazarus’ sister, Mary, demonstrated that in moments of grief and pain, perfect peace begins at the feet of Jesus.  (John 11: 32)

William Seldon

You don’t have Jesus walking beside you in physical form, but you do have His Word to lead and guide you every step of the way to build a solid foundation.  Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.  Make a genuine effort today to strive for peace as you interact with family, friends, and even your enemies.  Keep your eyes on the prize which is eternal life with God.

Tammy Coates