Hello Francis. Thanks for reading and for commenting. I certainly understand what you’re saying, however I think you misunderstand what kind of “peace” that the scriptures speak of, and that I’m referring to. We’re not talking about physical peace in our lives, or physical confusion in our lives due to the terrible circumstances that can befall us, just like what we are hearing about in Ukraine. But rather, the bible is speaking about spiritual peace. That’s the kind of peace that “passeth all understanding”. And that’s the peace that I’m referring to in this article. All of us suffer tribulation in this world. Jesus assures us that we will! But Jesus also assures us that we can overcome all those tribulations, through our faith, and the result is spiritual peace, that surpasses all comprehension. Jesus teaches us that no matter what befalls us in this life, we can still (and we should) have peace in our spirit, (in our soul). And no one can that peace from us, no matter what we suffer physically. Thanks so much for your comments, and may God bless you in the study of His word. Sincerely, Jim.

Respectfully, I must disagree. There are Christians in the Ukraine who, despite their faith, find their lives quite literally filled with strife and confusion as their homes are bombed and they flee for safety. Does that mean they’re faithless? It at all. Their Christian faith be all that they have left as all else is ripped away. The same is true in Cameroon right now, and what Christians survive in Syria and Sudan have known nought but strife in years.

It’s much easier to be faithful when you experience peace and rest. When your life consists of strife and confusion— not to mention torture, rape, and the death of all whom you love— and yet your faith in God never wavers? That is faith under fire, and true faith indeed.

Respectfully,

Francis Zanger, D.Min.

Seattle, WA