Mike Criswell
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, PEACE, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." Galatians 5:22-23
Oh, how we long for “peace.” Peace! Just to hear the word makes us for a moment breathe a bit easier. How does one even describe peace? I suppose one could start with its opposite (chaos, strife) but even that might not catch the true contrast with the beautiful word Paul uses in Galatians 5:22. The word Paul uses is . . . well, it’s “peaceful.” It settles the soul.
A word study of the New Testament’s use of the word “peace” (Greek: eirene) is quite revealing. The word carries the idea of “joining together,” and being “one again.” It can also carry the idea of “quietness” and “prosperity.” In other words, when Paul says the fruit of the Spirit is peace, he is showing us the unity we have with one another and with God through His Son Jesus the Christ. Before we give some practical application let’s briefly look at a few of the times New Testament writers use this gorgeous word.
When Jesus sent out the Twelve to preach, he told them that when they had been welcomed into a home, they were to let their “peace” rest upon it (Matthew 10:13). The peace the apostles provided had its source in their relationship with the Father.
To the sinful woman who anointed Jesus’ feet in Simon’s house, the Master said, “Go in peace, your faith has saved you” (Luke 7:50). In John 14:27, Jesus leaves his peace with his disciples and tells them not to be troubled or afraid. In John 16:33 Jesus says his followers would have trouble in this world but be at peace for he had overcome the world.
Paul says being justified by faith we have peace with God the Father (Romans 5:1). In Philippians 4:7 again Paul says that the peace of God passes all understanding and will guard or hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. James says that the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace (James 3:18).
We could go on and on, but here is the point. In Christ there is peace. Real peace. In Christ our hearts can be settled. Truly settled. We need not worry as the world does. The Lord is in control. "He’s got this!" (as we say today). Nothing, absolutely NOTHING can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:35). If you’re troubled, give it to Jesus! He IS peace personified.
One final observation. Not only do we have the ability to “have” peace, but James notes we must “make” peace (James 3:18). In other words, if what we do in our lives, or in the church does not promote peace, then we are not being what Jesus wants us to be (Matthew 5:9).
Jesus places his own special “beatitude” on peacemakers. It’s that important! The Kingdom of Heaven is all about peace.
Paul says in Romans 14:17, “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God.” Did you catch that? There is absolutely no room in Christ’ kingdom for troublemakers. There’s no room in the church for those who stir up strife and ruin the lives of others (James 3:16).
Jesus is the Prince of Peace. He gives peace and he expects us to MAKE peace. When we do anything that does not promote peace, we violate the very nature of the Kingdom of Heaven.
"May the God of hope fill you will all joy and peace as you trust in Him..." Romans 15:13.
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