Peace

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love: joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" (Galatians 5:22 - 23, NASB).

No matter how severe the difficulty that interrupted our life, abiding in God’s love can provide us with joy. That is simply an aspect of the kindness of his grace, but what about peace? In Philippians there is a favorite verse of many that explains how to obtain peace when we are anxious: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God and the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6 – 7, NASB). Is it possible to live in such a way that peace would be ever present as joy can be and as a result anxiety would be greatly reduced or even kept from forming?

Peace can be considered a state of tranquility or harmony. It is a condition of freedom from disturbance. When we are at peace things seem safe. Peace also seems to be associated with assurance and contentment. When at peace we can be content with our circumstance. It is interesting to note that you can have a particular circumstance and place two people in it and the effect will be different. One person may be very agitated while the other may be at peace. This would suggest a difference in how two people perceive a particular circumstance. I believe one possibility is whether the circumstance is viewed through the love of God or not.

To abide in God’s love means we are abiding in God, since God is love. If in faith I can say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!” (Psalm 91:2, NASB) then there is a state of feeling safe. If I am enjoying feasting on this fruit called “love” then these disturbing situations can be viewed in a state of peace. Some people face their problems by consuming strong drink or the use of drugs as a means of gaining temporary peace. I am suggesting love is a much better way and it is free and forever.

Peace is the second characteristic of love and is such an important element of life. Verse seven, quoted above from Philippians, indicates two important benefits. In addition to our state of peace being observed by others, it stands guard over our hearts and our minds. This peace is very important in maintaining emotional and mental health.

If we abide in God’s love we can then experience joy in the midst of any trial, no matter its severity, and we can have peace in the midst of very turbulent situations. Being able to experience this, how can anyone doubt the kindness of the grace of God? God says, “Come to me and I will give you [what you need for life].” If we abide in his love he will give us joy and peace in the midst of any circumstance. How much better can it get? Check back next time and see.