Peace is a word most sought after, most misunderstood and most misinterpreted. We are in the second week of advent, with the theme of peace, and yet According to recent data, there are currently around 56 ongoing conflicts worldwide, with some sources stating this is the highest number since World War II, involving numerous countries engaged in conflicts outside their borders.
So then, what is this peace? What does it look like? What does it mean? What is the peace of God?
In the Bible, the word Jesus uses for peace in most of these passages comes from the Greek word eiréné, which means harmony, tranquility, and reconciliation. It’s the concept of being in perfect unity and accord with the Lord, living in tune with his commands and ways.
It is a deep, inner peace that surpasses human comprehension, a calmness and serenity that can be experienced even amidst difficult circumstances, and is considered a gift from God that guards one's heart and mind through faith in Christ Jesus. This peace may not be logically understood but is visible in anyone who has experienced it. Visible in thier faces, ther manner, their talks and their behaviour, specially under extreme stress, because that stress or situation is passed onto Jesus in the full belief that He will carry that burden.
Jessica Brodie goes on to say that "in the short term, the peace of God doesn’t always look like world peace. But in the long-term, it is. For the peace of God comes when we know the God of peace". Jesus. Name above all names.
Which essentially means that till we as individuals experience God, believe in salvation, want salvation and believe that the way to salvation is through Jesus, the world cannot experience eiréné, the peace that Jesus talked about.
In fact, The "peace of God" can be considered a direct result of salvation, meaning that when a person accepts Jesus Christ and is saved, they receive a sense of peace and tranquility with God that comes from the forgiveness of their sins and the knowledge of their secure relationship with Him. They are no longer tormented souls on earth but, tranquil and peaceful beings.
This peace isn't just the absence of conflict, but a deep sense of security, contentment, and trust in God's plan, even amidst life's challenges.
John Blanchard made it quite simple when he commented there that the peace of God is being grateful for past mercy, conscious of present mercy, and certain of future mercy.
It is the peace from knowing God is with us. Emmanuel.
When people’s lives please the Lord, even their enemies are at peace with them.” (Proverbs 16:7)
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