August 10, 2023

World’s Peace

Daily Devotional2 Minutes

“They have healed the brokenness of the daughter of My people superficially, saying, “Peace, peace,” But there is no peace […] We waited for peace, but no good came; for a time of healing, but behold, terror!”—Jeremiah 8:11, 15 NASB

On this day in 1913, the nations of the Balkans (in Eastern Europe) signed The Treaty of Bucharest, ending the Second Balkan War. While this treaty technically ended the fighting, no one was satisfied.

As the British foreign secretary later recalled, feelings continued to run deep. These nations continued to look for ways to exact revenge.

Rather than solving problems, this treaty intensified the frustrations, anger, and divisions. Within a year, conflicts in the Balkans lit a spark that led to the horrors of World War I.

How often the solutions proposed by the world are only temporary. In Jeremiah’s time, some said they understood how to solve their problems and proclaimed a message of “peace, peace.” They described how their actions would heal “the brokenness.” But the healing was superficial and did not last.

Jeremiah waited for their promises to be fulfilled, “but no good came.” He looked for “a time of healing” but instead found terror.

Do you want real peace? Remember that the world’s solutions are temporary and partial at best. If you want real answers and real peace, make sure to seek God and obey His Word. Seek His wisdom and trust Him.

Make Jesus your Lord, for “He Himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14). He heals relationships and breaks down dividing walls. He gives a peace that lasts, “not as the world gives” (John 14:27).

Reflection Question: How can you be a peacemaker and a peacekeeper?

Prayer
Father, I need Your peace in my life. Use me to bring Your peace to others. I commit my life to serving You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Today's Bible Reading
Jeremiah 8

Prayer
Father, I need Your peace in my life. Use me to bring Your peace to others. I commit my life to serving You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Today's Bible Reading
Jeremiah 8