What stands between you and the perfect peace you desire for your life? Is it a specific problem, or is it your situation in general? Is it a particular person, or is it the lack of care, concern and courtesy you see in people? Is it an unanswered question about good and evil, or is it your firsthand knowledge of, or experience with, indifference and maliciousness? For each of us, it is a unique combination of issues and circumstances that result in the real or perceived personal sense of unmet needs and/or unfulfilled desires.
However, the Bible teaches that genuine peace is found only in a reconciled relationship with Father God through Jesus Christ.
- Romans 5:1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ
As a result of peace with God, the ‘fruit’ of peace is manifested in the lives of those who love and trust Him. Fruit in the life of a Christian is characterized by desires, attitudes, motives, actions, words, works and their impact on the world that honor God, emulate Jesus and demonstrate the God-glorifying life of a person completely surrendered and obedient to Christ and His teachings.
- Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.
- Because the Holy Spirit of God lives in followers of Jesus Christ, they will bear fruit that brings honor and glory to God. One of the elements of spiritual fruit is peace.
- James 3:17-18 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. 18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
- The wisdom of God, as contained in His Word and obtained through the indwelling presence of His Spirit, leads to peace.
Christians are called to a life of peace.
- Psalm 34:14 Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it.
- Be intentional about how and where your spend your time. Strive for peace in prayer and in practice.
- Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God.
- Let your passion for genuine peace be one of the reasons people recognize your love for and obedience to the Lord.
- Romans 12:18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.
- Never be the reason for a lack of peace. Sometimes peace can only be achieved through separating from those who won’t make peace.
During the Christmas season,
as we celebrate the birth of Jesus,
Who is the only way to genuine peace,
let’s experience, embrace and exemplify
the fruit of God-given peace found only in Him!
Then, in loving submission and obedience to Jesus Christ,
let’s pursue peace with all people and in all situations,
every day and every way for as long as we live!
Jesus is the Prince of Peace
- Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Jesus is the only way to Peace on Earth
- Luke 2:11-14 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 14 “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
The perfect peace of God is not always accompanied by nice feelings or comfortable circumstances. God-given peace is an internal reality based on His character and promises.
- Isaiah 26:3 You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.
- Romans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer
God of love, giver of peace, I pray, Holy Father, that the peace You give will be experienced and shared through Your children. I pray that others will be drawn to You for salvation in Christ and Your perfect peace. I pray for Peace on Earth! I pray these things in the name above every name, Jesus. Amen.
