“…in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Jesus
Four hundred verses in scripture speak of peace in one aspect or another. The concept of well-being and peace, Shalom, weaves throughout God’s Word. The common greeting in the Hebrew world was “Shalom.” Similar to the modern, ‘How are you? The question was closer to, ‘Do you have peace? ‘Harmony of heart and relationships embodies the biblical understanding of peace. It is much more than the absence of conflict; it is confidence, security and assurance for body and soul. It is the province of God
In the Centuries before the birth of the Savior, Isaiah prophesied the Deliverer would be called the Prince of Peace. Angelic announcements of Christ’s birth proclaimed ‘Peace on earth. ‘Shockingly, during his brief earthly ministry, Jesus told his followers that he did not come to bring peace but a sword. The passage of scripture that follows teaches us that peace is the result of right priorities. Peace flows only when souls connect to the Father. Unity with the Father was the sole focus of our Lord Jesus Christ. The sword Christ brought is to free us from the bonds of sin and rebellion that separate us from the Father. Christ won that victory and led captivity captive! The Prince of Peace left a legacy of peace. It is ours to receive!
Too often, we strive for peace--trying to create it with our own agendas. Scripture commands us to pursue peace not produce peace. In failing to use the sword Christ brought to put our selfish desires to death, we forfeit the legacy of Christ. Our sword is the Word; loving and obeying it will lead us into the Way, into Peace, into Christ. Our Peace is present; receive Him; enjoy His victory today. Trust in His power, love and ability to guide you into the next step. As the gospel hymn says, ‘The Great I am, still is.’
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