The world has for many generations been striving for peace. Peace treaties, summits, conferences and all kinds of meetings have been convened to promote peace among nations, communities, and even between individuals. However, despite people’s best efforts the world is not peaceful. Tribalism, nepotism, racism are rife. Furthermore, on an interpersonal level peace does not characterize many relationships and conflicts are ongoing. Sadly, most of us live with inner turmoil and chaos in our hearts. In what ways then do we need peace in our lives?
The Bible tells us that we are born sinners (Ps. 51:5), and as a result, we are hostile to God (Col. 1:21). Because of our hostility resulting from our sinfulness, God’s wrath is upon us from birth (Eph. 2:3, Rom. 1:18). Therefore, there is no peace between God and man because of our sins. Thankfully, God demonstrated His love towards us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us and paid the penalty for our sins (Rom. 5:8). As a result of this great salvation, sinful man is reconciled back to God, and man can have peace with God (Rom. 5:1).
It is those then who have experienced this peace of God that comes as a result of salvation that have peace internally. It is the peace that comes from knowing that your sins are forgiven and you do not bear their burden anymore. It is also the peace that comes from knowing that your life is in the hands of God (Matt. 6:25-34). It is the peace which passes all understanding that rules our hearts (Phil. 4:6, Col. 3:14). The evidence of this peace in the believer’s life is the absence of fear and anxiety. It is not so for those who are not at peace with God. The Lord Himself warns us of this truth through His prophet Isaiah.
But the wicked are like the tossing sea; for it cannot be quiet and its waters toss up mire and dirt. There is no peace says my God for the wicked. Isaiah 57:20-21
A restless and agitated soul is an indicator of a life that knows no peace with God, and like the waters of the sea that are tossed to and fro, that soul is full of noise and misery.
Peace with God and within one’s soul results in peace with others. As the Spirit of God works in us, we invariably live at peace with all men. The Bible exhorts us if it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men (Rom. 12:18). All men, includes brothers and sisters, family, friends and enemies. Those who are spirit filled live at peace with all people because the love of God rules their lives, and they have the mind of Christ (Phil. 2:1-5).
Another important truth to highlight about the peace from God is that it is different from the peace that the world preaches. In the world, peace is the absence of turmoil, trouble and all kinds of difficulty. In contrast, biblical peace is actually seen in the midst of turmoil. The words of Christ to his disciples are very instructive for us today, so I leave you with them to mediate on.
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
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