2 Peter 3:14 So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him.

This is the logical response to all the talk about End Times. It is true that many things seem to point to Christ’s return being imminent, but getting worked up over it to the point that we can’t function normally isn’t the right response. The famous words about God’s perspective in verse 8 should free us from timelines, and this verse tells us how to live however long it is. Our effort is involved, as the word “diligent” indicates, but our concern should be for holy living, and we are to walk in peace. The Japanese makes it clear that this is talking about internal peace, which is possible even in the middle of a war. That’s a good thing to remember when “peace” seems like a forgotten concept at times. Peace requires stability, and stability requires a foundation. As the hymn says, “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.” If we will maintain our position in Christ, then we will be islands of peace and stability in the middle of all the turmoil and confusion that surrounds us. It has been said that “The only thing constant is change.” That might seem to be true, but Jesus Christ and the facts of the Gospel never change. That is the secret to spiritual maturity. As Paul put it, “Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.” (Ephesians 4:14-15) That is peace and stability!

I was raised with a pretty good foundation of Biblical understanding, for which I am grateful. I have certainly seen some “winds of teaching” over the years! I am not to reject things because they seem different, but I am to test everything against the foundation of Scripture, guided by Holy Spirit. He will keep me straight! I desire peace as much as anyone, and I enjoy excitement at times. If I will keep my heart fixed on my Lord, I will get plenty of both. These are tumultuous times, but looking back over history, such are more the rule than the exception. I am to be a carrier of inner peace to those with whom I interact, for their blessing and God’s glory.

Father, thank You for this reminder. I do see countless things all around me that could easily get me worked up. Help me indeed submit everything to You so that Your peace may guard my heart and mind, (Philippians 4:6-7) for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!