Is it just me, or does it seem as though peace is getting harder and harder to come by in our fast-paced, terror-ridden, success-driven, disease-threatened, media-saturated, economically- troubled world?

But I believe Christians can have peace -- all the time! After all, Jesus said in John 14:27, Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Was He just kidding? I don’t think so. I think this supernatural peace actually belongs to us, which means we can be living in it 24/7, no matter what’s happening in the world around us. In fact, this peace is meant to sustain us through all the troubles of this world.

So how do we keep it in our hearts and homes when everything around us screams turmoil, disaster and fear? I believe we have to facilitate the peace. Here are four ways to fill your heart and home with the peace that already belongs to you in Christ.

1. Watch the airwaves. When we fill our hearts and minds with movies, TV, video, and news offerings that peddle fear, violence and disaster as daily fare, it’s no wonder we lose our peace. Many times we can’t control what’s happening around us, but many times we can. When possible, be careful what you’re allowing into your mind! Focus on God and the greatness of His power. Isaiah 26:3 tells us that when we put our attention on the Lord, we will have perfect peace. Yes! Ask the Lord, “Is there anything I’m doing that is stealing my peace? Help me to be discerning about what I’m focusing on or releasing into the atmosphere of my heart and home.” Put on some peaceful worship music or anointed teaching and let it permeate every nook and cranny.

2. Resist strife. Nothing steals your peace faster than strife. Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines strife as angry disagreement, bitter conflict, or contention for superiority. It takes spiritual effort to recognize and resist strife, but it is so worth it. Proverbs 17:14 says, The beginning of strife is like releasing water; Therefore stop contention before a quarrel starts. Do whatever it takes to walk in love and stay out of strife.

3. Don’t worry. Philippians 4:6, 7 puts it plain: don’t fret, pray about it, thank God for the answer, and then the peace that passes all understanding will flood your heart and mind. If you’re like me, sometimes you worry for a while before it occurs to you to pray! Let’s endeavor to pray first, and keep our peace.

4. Use the Name. You and I have authority to use the Name above all names – Jesus – against any work of the enemy. John 14:13 says, Whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. I’ve been known in trying times to just walk around repeating “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.” It brings peace (and results) every time! Let’s use what Jesus has given us.