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Know God, Know Peace: A John 14:27 Creative Devotional
I didn’t realize how much energy worry was stealing from me.
For a long time, I thought peace would come when my life finally settled down… when I had all the answers and knew exactly what was coming next. But lately, I’ve realized there’s always something seeking my attention.
The thing about worry is that it rarely comes alone. One anxious thought invites another. One fear opens the door to ten more. Before long, my mind is racing ahead into the future, trying to solve every problem and prepare for every single possibility. I’ve spent so much time trying to control outcomes that have always been completely beyond my reach.
But the more I do that, the more I realize that peace isn’t something I can obtain for myself. The peace I need doesn’t come from having every answer, but from knowing the One who does.
That’s why I’ve been returning to the comforting words of Jesus 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.”
Not as the World Gives
What I love most about this verse is that Jesus isn’t offering temporary relief. He’s offering His peace. The world tells us we will feel peaceful when our bank accounts, relationships, and health are in place. But the peace Jesus gives isn’t dependent on circumstances. It stays even when life feels uncertain.
I’ve found that the more I spend time with Him… reading His Word and simply knowing Him more… the more my perspective begins to change. My thoughts start to align with His. I’m reminded that I’m not facing any of this by myself… and that God already knows exactly what is weighing on my heart.
True peace isn’t found in figuring everything out. It’s found in drawing closer to the One who holds everything together.
Behind the Art: Letting Peace Reign in Your Life
When creating this hand-drawn modern Christian art, I wanted to capture a visual sense of underwater stillness. I used a torn paper collage junk journal aesthetic because our minds can often feel like bits and pieces of scattered thoughts… yet God can take those fragments and quiet them into something beautiful.
To match the comforting promise of the scripture, I chose beach/ocean coastal creatures with summer vibes:
- Jellyfish with Cute Bows: When visiting aquariums, I’m always drawn to jellyfish. They just seem so at ease… and don’t force their way through the waters. The currents carry them… reminding us that we can drift safely in God’s grace.
- The Dolphin and Sea Turtle: These animals represent a calm, unhurried presence in the vast ocean. They move with a steady rhythm. They remind me that we can move through uncertain seasons without panicking.
- Seashells, Coral, and Starfish: These are steady treasures often anchored to the ocean floor. They remind me that even in tough times, even when I feel like I’m overwhelmed by everything, there’s beauty that can be found around.
Hand-lettering the faith quote “know God know peace” in a whimsical doodle retro-lettering style was like an affirmation for my soul. It’s a daily reminder to stop running ahead… and instead allow His presence to wash over me.
The One Who Holds Your Future
If you’ve been feeling a lack of peace lately, let this be your gentle reminder: You don’t have to carry every burden by yourself.
You can bring Him all your fears, worries, and anxieties right now. You can rest in the reality that God already knows. The One who holds your future has always been holding you together.
A Simple Reflection for Your Day
- Think about something that has caused you to be unsettled recently. Would you choose to tell God how you’re feeling, and allow His presence to bring you peace?
- What would it be like to allow God to lead you, and trust God to carry you through today?
FAQ: Finding True Peace in Christ
What is the connection between knowing God and experiencing peace?
As the quote says, “Know God, know peace.” True peace is a byproduct of relationship. In 2 Peter 1:2, scripture tells us that grace and peace are multiplied to us through the knowledge of God. The more we learn about His character, His faithfulness, and His love, the more natural it becomes to trust Him and let go of anxiety.
How is Jesus’ peace different from the world’s peace?
The world’s peace is fragile because it relies on external circumstances being perfect or favorable. Jesus’ peace is internal and supernatural. It can coexist with trouble, grief, or uncertainty because it is anchored in His unfailing love, His constant presence, and finished work on the cross.
How do I allow His peace to reign in my life when my mind is racing with worries or fears?
It usually starts with an intentional pause. When you notice your thoughts spiraling, physically slow down, take a breath, and redirect your focus. You can repeat a scripture like John 14:27, listen to a worship song, or write down your worries in a journal… consciously handing them over to God.
Find Peace in His Presence
You don’t have to solve the future today. You can simply rest in His presence, knowing that you are deeply loved, and held safe in His arms.
— Nicole
A Little Invitation
If your mind has been feeling somewhat overwhelmed lately, I share creative reflections and simple journal prompts in my free studio letter. It’s a cozy, pressure-free space where we slow down and look rest in God’s peace together through scripture and art. You’re so welcome to join us below!
