2021 Daily Devotion - Day 295

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SHALOM.

Shalom is a word used even today in Israel as a greeting. However, it means more than our English word “hello”. Generally, to most people, it is a word meaning “peace”, but there is so much more. Shalom is a word used in the scriptures meaning “that which is for your highest good” or your total well-being. It also means wholeness, harmony and completeness, and more.

So, if buried in your heart is anger, bitterness and vindictiveness, it is difficult to experience Shalom. If you are living in ways not pleasing to God, it is difficult to experience Shalom. If you are filled with self-sufficiency, it is difficult to experience Shalom.

Shalom comes when we are in alignment with God. Without this cohesion with God, Shalom will only be a word or a greeting. But in Jesus, we can have this oneness with God. He makes it possible through His death and resurrection. Here is Jesus’ promise:

John 14:27 ESV
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

Pray with me:
Lord Jesus Christ, frequently and even habitually we keep You at a distance. We do this through our self-will and stubbornness. Give us a craving for Shalom. We need it more than ever today, Jesus. I will do whatever You ask me to do. I submit my life to You and ask for Your Shalom. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

Yours because of Him,
Pastor John R. Steward
Senior Pastor
Mount of Olives Church
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