The “peace that passes all understanding” is never fully understood, except through experience. It isn’t the peace we can work hard to achieve. It isn’t the result of our efforts or the consequence of a choice. The peace Christ has left with us is unique because it's only experienced as a gift received from his Holy Spirit. 

Jesus left us with his Spirit so that we would have his gift of peace. When our minds won’t rest from our troubled thoughts and when we fear the possibilities that exist while living on this side of heaven, it's difficult not to be anxious and afraid. In fact, it's likely that our minds will be troubled at times. 

But Jesus told his disciples to make a choice during those difficult times. He said, “Don’t be troubled.” How is that possible? If we knew we would inherit a fortune next month, this month’s bills wouldn’t trouble us. If we knew we were immune to disease, we wouldn’t worry about what the doctor might say. If we knew we would always be safe, we wouldn’t fear what might happen. The peace the world gives is only temporary. The peace of Christ is anchored in eternity. 

We know we have all the promises of heaven, but we want those promises now too. Jesus promised us his peace. We can live with confidence in our inheritance, our health, and our security. The peace that passes all understanding comes from keeping our hearts and minds fixed on Christ, not by focusing on the things of earth.  

Christ died and rose again and is now seated at the right hand of God. We have proof that the circumstances of this world are all temporary. Christians will rise again, just as Jesus did, and enter into our promised land. That is the peace that is ours in Christ Jesus, the peace only Jesus can give. 

Allow the word of Christ to dwell in you richly and the peace of Christ will follow. Jesus left us with his peace because he left us. He ascended to heaven and promised, one day, he would take us too.