How Do I Find Peace and Hope?

In the fast pace of today’s world, many find themselves without peace and hope. There are so many distractions and products being marketed which promise that if you follow popular culture you will be happy.

These trends continue as the world gets more and more focused on individual success and further from God’s commandments. Yet, depression and anxiety are on the rise, affecting more people more intensely than we have ever seen. The world cannot give us lasting peace and hope.

True peace and hope can be found in the teachings of Jesus Christ. He knew the trials we would face. Jesus said:

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

We can learn about Jesus’ power in the following story found in the New Testament:

After a long day of teaching, Jesus asked the disciples to sail across the sea. As they set sail, Jesus fell asleep. Clouds gathered while the disciples sailed, and then the wind came. Soon, violent waves tossed and threw the small ship around without mercy. The disciples, though experienced sailors, were frightened and knew that the storm had become deadly.
A disciple went to the back of the ship, waking Jesus.

“Master! Don’t you care that we are about to die? How can you sleep in such a storm?!” he shouted, over the sound of the crashing waves.
Jesus immediately got up and spoke to the wind.
“Peace, be still,” He said calmly, arms outstretched to the dangerous tempest. The wind slowed, and the sea calmed, obeying the Master. In a matter of moments, the once raging sea was smooth as glass, and the air was still.
Christ turned and looked at the disciples, who were still soaked and afraid.

“Why are you so afraid? Where is your faith?” Jesus asked the shivering men.
The disciples looked at each other with amazement.

“What kind of man is this? Even the wind and the sea obey Him!” one cried.

Jesus literally calmed the storm for the disciples. He can calm our internal storms as well. Our circumstances may not seem to change, but we can find peace as we hold on to the commandments and loving those around us. Jesus gave His life for us. He won’t leave us alone when we call for help.