God's Peace

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally beloved whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things, Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:4-9 (NRSV)

Reidunn Hanasand, from Agder, Norway, and her husband had a good life. They had both experienced previous turbulent marriages, and they thought they would have a happy future together. But after four years, he began having trouble swallowing his food.

After several consultations with doctors, he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. The prognosis was not good; his disease was terminal. They prayed for healing and then left everything to the Lord.

At worship one Sunday evening, the minister spoke about heaven and everlasting life in Christ. Suddenly light filled Reidunn's heart - as if God were saying to her, "I am waiting for him. The very best is to come." Reidunn felt a sudden and wonderful peace.

Her husband died five months later. She mourned him deeply, but she also knew that he was delivered from all pain. She thank God for giving her such assurance and peace, which made it easier for her in her loss.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for surrounding us with your peace, comfort, and love, especially in times of grief, in Jesus' name. Amen.