By: Elizabeth Haarberg
Detachment
You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.
There are so many wonderful things about Earth such as nature, kind people, and many other things, but there are also painful experiences here such as sickness, death, divorce, and other difficult challenges. God tells us true peace and joy come in knowing and residing in Jesus, but sometimes in the painful moments it’s hard to remember.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 New International Version
Jesus says he has “overcome the world.” There is a greater power here than pain; we can put our trust and hope in someone who loves us so much that they help us transcend the painful moments on Earth.
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2 English Standard Version
By transforming our minds to the mind of Christ, we can live by God’s standards, not the world’s standards. This means that we attach to God and Jesus, decreasing our dependence on what happens on Earth. God gives us peace in the middle of any worry or concern we have, but it is up to us to grab on to that peace.
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way.”
2 Thessalonians 3:16 English Standard Version
Peace is possible in the worst situations because God is always present and always victorious. It is hard for humans to remember that all the pain and difficulties we experience are meant to draw us closer to God, our true rescuer and redeemer. As hard as this is to say, no other person can rescue us completely, no matter how good and kind they are.
Cling to Jesus and let the Holy Spirit guide you toward a heavenly mind so you can let go of the things that tether you to Earth, bringing peace and joy with the detachment.
Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado
