Many times, the Bible seems to be contradicting itself - or at least, from our finite perspective. For now, peace.
"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." (Jn 16:33)
How is it possible for us to have peace in tribulation?
Often, we confuse ourselves thinking that peace is associated with smooth and happiness. When tribulations or difficult situations arises, we are discouraged and disheartened. We think that as Christians, as children of God, He would make things better. He would grant us peace so we can sail through the storm in ease. We tend to forget that having peace does not mean that things will always go smoothly (unless if it's peace on earth).
Peace as the Bible would tell us is:
1) Peace with God (Rm 5:1, Eph 2:14-17)
Work of Christ into which the individual enters by faith
2) Peace from God (Rm 1:7, 1 Cor 1:3)
Emphasize the source of all true peace
3) Peace of God (Phil 4:7)
Inward peace, state of the soul of the Christian who, having entered into peace with God, has committed all his anxieties to God through prayer and thanksgiving.
4) Peace of/on earth
Universal peace on the earth
A lot of times, we do not have peace in tribulation because we long for the peace of this earth. We forget that the source of true peace is from God and only from Him. No matter the circumstances, as long as we keep a pure relationship with our Lord, our Father, then no matter the ditch that we're in, we will be calm. In our anger, we can keep our composure and still be christian-like. From our actions, others can see that we are different and we have the peace of God, from God, with God.
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