Colossians 3:15 says, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts since as members of one body you were called to peace.” As Christians, we can tap into biblical peace. This type of peace is unrelated to our circumstances. It doesn’t focus on the absence of trouble. This kind of inner peace gives us comfort, even in the worst times. You may be going through a challenging trial, and biblical peace is still present. Knowing how to allow this peace to rule our lives isn’t the easiest thing to do. Sometimes, just glancing at the news or your mounting list of tasks will fill your heart with anxiety and overwhelm us. You may also look at the success or peace of others around you and want what you think you don’t have. Then, there are those encounters that steal your peace. When we’re facing the storms of life, it can feel like we’re fighting for our own peace daily. Thankfully, God offers words of peace that carry us through any trial.
Peace represents rest and tranquility in the New Testament. One of the keys focuses of peace in the Bible is the arrival of Jesus Christ, referenced in Luke 2:14. The Bible says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth among those with whom He is pleased!” Isaiah prophesied that Jesus would be the Prince of Peace. Jeremiah 6:14 says, “For us, a child is born, to us, a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” We know that through Christ, we have the peace of God that passes all understanding. We also know that this peace will keep our minds and hearts secure. God calls us to seek peace. Therefore, it’s vital that we do everything we can to maintain our peace.
If we want God’s peace to rule our hearts, primarily through life’s daily storms, we have to focus on it. There are so many things in our world that demand our attention. It’s hard to concentrate when we have a million projects and tasks to complete. This is one of the reasons why focus is crucial to our relationship with God. If we try to read the Bible but don’t focus, we will get lost. The reason you wander around is that it feels like you’re not connecting. It may even feel like you don’t know what you’re doing. It’s essential that we develop a trained eye to understand God’s Word and the significance behind these words. Not only will you be able to engage with the Bible better, but you will also be able to experience the peace of God in a more profound way.
If you are ready to tap into the peace of God, you must also understand who the true Source of peace is. This will carry us through our challenging periods. The Bible says, “Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times in every way” (1 Thessalonians 3:16). Throughout scripture, God is referred to as “the God of peace.” In fact, 15 biblical epistles give greetings that include versions of the expression “peace from God.” Ultimately, our soul craves peace. Too often, people buy into the notion that a walk outside or a simple day of solitude will give you peace. Peace is more than just being in a serene setting. Those who promise that they can provide you with peace aren’t being real. If you are looking for lasting, soul-level peace, you must turn to God. He is the Source of all peace.
Sometimes, it feels like we’re living in a daily warzone. We wonder when all the chaos will end, and we can find a sense of balance and joy again. It’s imperative that we defend our peace each day. Scripture says, “Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11). There are countless lies we will encounter daily that will attempt to take away our peace. We must call on the Spirit of God to make those lies known so that we aren’t allowing them to infiltrate our lives. One of the first steps you can take is declaring the need for God’s strength in your life. Also, express the need for the power to expel any lies that take away the peace that God grants you.
Our peace is a gift from God, and it’s crucial that we defend it ceaselessly, especially when we’re struggling through the worst periods of our lives. If we pay attention, remaining on guard from any attacks from the enemy, we can be sure to recognize his schemes. These sorts of tricks will pull us away from a strong relationship with God. The enemy did this with Adam and Eve, and it planted seeds of doubt in their mind about who God was. He will try to raise lies about God. We must be prepared for these attacks against God’s character. We should hold onto this verse from 1 Peter 5:8, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” There is no attack you can’t divert or ward off when God is on your side.
Too often, we focus more on the stress of our life than the joys. Instead of allowing discontent and anxiety to take over, we should allow the peace of God to take over. Remember these two powerful verses from Isaiah. The first verse we should remember is Isaiah 32:17 which says, “And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.” Also, hold onto Isaiah 52:7 which says, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’” When we take time to focus on God’s presence, peace and the strength of His Spirit, there is no circumstance we can’t face.
