At the time I write these words I am 52 years old. I have been a believer since April 26, 1997. I started teaching God’s Word almost immediately. I used to work with Foster Care Children and the change on my character was so radical that they started asking me many questions about the Lord. I became a deacon later on, an Elder, Worship Leader, Men’s Ministry Director and as time went by, a Senior Pastor position. Yes, I knew how to sing, preach and teach; I knew to say the right things, but deep inside, I did not know how to have peace and joy. 

Peace and joy are powerful emotions that every human soul desires. As a matter fact you can take all the drugs in the world and divide them up into two categories, one to make you hyper and the other to calm you down. Drugs are used to control how we feel. Every person, no matter their faith, deep down, wants peace and joy. Sadly, many things get on the way of experiencing peace and joy such as our sins, bad decisions, circumstances, etc.  

It is amazing to me that last year was the year where I enjoyed peace and joy like never before in my life. In the midst of the Coronavirus’ mess, changes in our society, social distancing, mask, etc. my soul, for the most part, was at peace and joyful. In Romans 15:13 the Bible tells us, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (NIV)

Everything starts with trusting God. Without trusting God, we can’t experience hope, without trusting God we can’t experience joy and peace. There is no wonder the Bible tells us that “…without faith it is impossible to please God…” Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) Isaiah has something to say about peace when he states, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” Isaiah 26:3 (NIV) 

Jesus tells us in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (NIV) Jesus commands us to not let our hearts be trouble and not be afraid. Don’t expect peace and joy without trusting God.