Peace

Around the world, peace is under attack. Whether it’s Russia’s ongoing aggressions against the Ukrainians, China’s saber-rattling in the waters around Taiwan, North Korean nuclear threats, or escalating conflict between Israel and Palestine, peace seems to lie crushed under the weight of hostilities and wars. CrisisWatch,* a global conflict tracker, is currently monitoring 70 conflicts and crises around the globe.

The phrase “jumping into the political arena” has never been more appropriate than it is today. Political gladiators enter the fray, periodically emerging equally bloodied, bruised, and battered to comment on their side’s version of the priority conflict of the moment. Peace is a stranger in that environment.

A glance at economic, judicial, educational, religious, and any number of other systems will quickly reveal that discord, upheaval, and disunity abound. Peace seems nowhere to be found.

Sadly, the disruption goes deeper: personal relationships, marriages, and families – at one time, all were seemingly safe havens for peace.  Today? Rarely.

And yet, Jesus said,

“I have said these things to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

If this is true, and it is, how are we to reconcile the disruptive, often chaotic, condition of this world and the peace in which we are supposed to be living?

Let’s take a closer look at the meaning of the word “peace.” Dictionary definitions include a state of tranquility or quiet, the absence of civil disturbances or wars, or a state of order – physical, emotional, and/or mental. The world’s definition of peace is closely tied to circumstances and our response to those circumstances.

Scriptures’ definition of the word “peace” provides the insight needed to better understand how we can begin to experience the peace GOD intends for us. The peace that Christ purchased for us.

Two words in the Bible are translated as “peace.” In the Old Testament, it is the Hebrew word shalom; in the New Testament, it is the Greek word, eirēnē. The definition for both is similar. It is broader than our modern-day definition, and although it does include the idea of the absence of conflicts and disturbances, the primary emphasis of the Scriptural definition is on the relationship between God and man.

Biblical peace means the war is over between God and the person who has claimed the peace of God through Christ Jesus. The rebel has laid down the weapons of war and willingly changed sides. The conflict is over and a new relationship has been established.

Jesus, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6, Luke 2:14) purchased our peace on the cross at Calvary for a price beyond measure. He paid with His own blood; He died in our place so that we might live peace-filled lives. Jesus was the one-time answer to the peace offering required by the Old Testament law.  

“But He was pierced for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with His wounds, we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5

Jesus’ death purchased our peace with GOD. Peace is a gift from GOD, made possible because of Jesus. It is ours if we place our faith in Jesus and accept Him as our LORD and Savior.

“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1

All the conflict and the fractured relationship between GOD and man that began in the Garden of Eden was reconciled on the cross. Peace was made possible by the death of our Savior.

“For in Him (Jesus) all the fullness of GOD was pleased to dwell, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.” Colossians 1:19-2

The biblical meaning of peace also includes the idea of wholeness, soundness, completeness, and the ability to flourish in your relationship with God, with others, in your circumstances, and with yourself.

So how does this work for the Christ-follower? Scripture tells us:

– Troubles and unsettling times will come but KNOW that Jesus has overcome the world. John 16:33

– Fill your heart and mind with God’s truth, and with all things excellent and uplifting. Romans 8:6b, Philippians 4:8-9

– Live for Christ, not for self. Romans 13:14, 14:19

– Keep in step with the Holy Spirit and pursue the fruits of the Spirit. Galatians 5:16, 22-25

– Trust God – talk to God about everything (prayer) and ask for His peace to rule your heart. Philippians 4:6-9

Dear Friend, you can live a peace-filled life. Claim the promises of peace that God has given us in His Word, made possible by His Son, and empowered by His Spirit.

“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.” Colossians 3:15

What do you need to do to live a peace-filled life?

What difference would it make in your life and for those around you, if you were walking in the peace of God each day?

“For HE Himself (Jesus) is our peace….”Ephesians 2:14a

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. …May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.”Romans 15:13, 33

“Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16

* CrisisWatch, a global conflict tracker tool designed by International Crisis Group, crisisgroup.org/

“Within” by JOYSPRING from Epidemic Sound