Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers, you have no need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

1 Thessalonians 5:1-3

Over the last few days, there’s been a lot of talk about a peace agreement between the U.S. and the nation of Iran. What does it all mean? Will there be peace? No matter what you or I may think about the idea of peace and security based on an agreement from flawed human beings, even though most people desire to live in peace, lasting peace isn’t here yet, is it?

In the verses above, Paul warns about those who might grow complacent about the return of the LORD and instead rely on the peace and security promised by leaders in the world. Instead of peace, the result is destruction, but there is a promise of hope in the description of labor pains.

“See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.

Matthew 24: 4-8

Jesus told His followers that there would be deception, conflict, and turmoil in the days ahead. Yet He also gave a reassuring command: “See that you are not alarmed.” These events do not catch God by surprise. He remains sovereign over history, and His promises remain secure.

We will likely continue to see wars, unrest, and renewed promises of peace from world leaders. But as followers of Christ, our hope is not anchored in political agreements or human solutions. Our hope rests in the Prince of Peace, who will one day establish His perfect kingdom.