Introductory Thoughts
It is important to realize that the perception of peace in a person's life can be truly deceptive. Those who live for the Devil and for themselves may seem to prosper and enjoy peace. They may even testify of the peace that they seem to enjoy while those living for the Lord honestly exhibit trials and temptations associated with such a relationship. Yet, we have God's word on the matter: the wicked have no peace. This truth is so important that the Lord repeated the thought of the wicked having no peace in Isaiah 57:21. The wicked may enjoy times of calm in their lives, but these times are not the true and enduring peace that only comes from a relationship with the Saviour. Consider this vivid description before embarking on such a life: “the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt” (Isaiah 57:20). Peace comes from God!
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Briefly tell your children the story of Naboth's vineyard. Wicked king Ahab was happy when he thought he got his way. Yet, he had no peace; he was told his end (1 Kings 21:19). Whatever God says will happen does come to pass (1 Kings 22:34-38).
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(For everyone): Do you ever envy the wicked for the prosperity they seem to enjoy? Asaph had this problem until he went into the sanctuary of God and understood their end (Psalm 73:17).
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Do you have your eyes on the Lord or upon others? Peace is associated with righteousness (Psalm 85:10; Romans 14:17) and will only be given to those who seek the Lord and His strength.
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to help you understand the end of the wicked.
- Ask God to help you seek peace through righteousness.
Song
Christ Receiveth Sinful Men
