Trials do not test our peace; they test our faith.

Peace is not an independent spiritual quality we somehow manufacture when life becomes difficult. Peace is the fruit of confident trust in God. When our faith is tested, the condition of our trust is revealed—and our peace reflects where that trust is resting.

Isaiah wrote, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You” (Isaiah 26:3).

Notice the connection: peace flows from trust.

When our confidence is rooted in circumstances, peace disappears as soon as circumstances change. But when our confidence is rooted in the unchanging character of God, peace can remain even while the storm continues.

A troubled heart does not necessarily mean we possess no faith. It may mean our faith is being called to grow and rest more deeply in who God is.

Trials test faith. Faith rests in God. And confident trust produces peace.

–PGR