Life is full of ominous expectations. Amid anxieties, gloom and worries, one longs for peace. But many find this peace illusive or unobtainable.
May I suggest that part of the problem is a misunderstanding of peace, and the other part of the problem seems to be not knowing how to obtain it.
Some time ago I found a definition of peace that has stuck with me over the years: “Peace is the heart (the mind, emotions and will) at rest with God.” And it is God alone who offers this peace. Let me give you a sampling or smattering of God’s message of peace:
I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; For You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. (Psalm 4:8)
Great peace have those who love Your law, And nothing causes them to stumble. (Psalm 119:165)
You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You ,Because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, For in YAH, (an abbreviation for Jehovah) the Lord, is everlasting strength. (Isaiah 26:3–4)
[The literal Hebrew rendering for “perfect peace” is “peace, peace:” – – shalom, shalom, signifying that the one who focuses his mind on the God of the Bible (and the Bible of God) will experience a double portion of God’s peace]!
“Peace I (Jesus Christ, the Messiah, the Son of God), leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).
“Therefore, having been justified (to be declared right before God) by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
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