In the movie Miss Congeniality, Gracie Hart, an undercover police officer at the Miss USA contest, is asked what she believes is the most important thing society needs. After making a quip about parole violation – which goes down like a lead balloon – she says: “And world peace!” leading to applause. Aside from the fact it is a humorous twist on a conventional pageant answer, Gracie hits the nail on the head when it comes to what we all long for in our lives – peace.
The Oxford English Dictionary defines peace as freedom from civil unrest, quarrels and anxiety. Peace is, therefore, described as an absence of things which disturb us. We know that such a portrayal of life is virtually impossible. In fact, Jesus knew it too when He addressed His followers: “In this world you will have trouble” (John 16 v 33).
We daily see the reality of such trouble on a global scale. We see it within our own lives as we face struggles. Peace seems so elusive. Yet the fact that Paul lists peace as a fruit of the Spirit tells us that peace is not a vague prospect but a tangible reality of a believer abiding in Christ.
Let’s look briefly at 3 key areas in which followers of Jesus can have, know and display peace.
Peace with God
Romans 5 tells us we are born as enemies of God but through the death of Christ we have peace with God (v 1; v10). We, the unrighteous, are made right with God. Therefore, even if the whole world were to rise against us, our hearts can know everlasting peace. Our greatest problem has been resolved, and our greatest need has been met. Jesus, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9), brings us near to God. What kinds of heart will you encounter this summer? There will be many who are not at peace with God. They do not know God is willing to forgive and that He makes all things new. Be ready, above all else, to point others to Jesus – the source of true peace.
Peace in ourselves
As believers, we can know and display the fruit of true and lasting peace which rests deeply in our hearts despite the tests of life. Jesus Himself embodied this kind of peace amid pressures heaped upon Him. When faced with thousands to feed, He didn’t stress. When faced with the responsibility of attending to the most vulnerable in society, He didn’t become overwhelmed. When a storm raged about Him at sea, Jesus slept. Even when faced with the death of his dear friend (John 11), He did not fall apart. Jesus was always at peace.
We, too, can be peaceful people. This is so much more than misplaced positive thinking or human efforts to curb our anxieties through various strategies. The kind of peace of which Paul speaks in Galatians is a deep assurance that Jesus is with us, He cares for us, He is always at work in our lives, and that we can trust Him fully (Isaiah 12 v 2).
When we truly know who God is – the supreme ruler over every matter – His peace grows in our hearts and minds no matter what situation we face (Phil 4 v 7). He offers us a peace that the world can never give (John 14 v 27).
No matter what we encounter this summer, we can deal with all things with the calm reassurance that we are not alone, and that God is for us. What a victory.
Peace with others
The Bible repeatedly exhorts Christians to seek and keep peace with others (Hebrews 12 v 14; Matthew 5 v 9). We are not to be people who stir up dissent or cause disunity. A commitment to bearing the fruit of peace means navigating our relationships in a way that honours God and fosters unity.
During summer ministry you may work with people with opposing ideas and opinions, with people who are not like you and who do not do things as you would wish. As humans, our differences can rub each other the wrong way. As believers, we must be quick to approach conflict with a mindset of reconciliation and understanding. We all fall short, so let’s be people who extend grace. Let’s be people of peace.
God has a never-ending supply of the beautiful fruit of peace. It is His joy to produce the fruit of peace in our lives if we ask Him and submit to His work in our lives.
Questions for further study:
Monday: Isaiah 26 v 3
How can focusing on God allow our minds to be at peace?
Tuesday: Romans 5
The peace mentioned in Romans 5 differs from the fruit of peace. Read this chapter and note what Jesus has done so we can be at peace with God. How can you demonstrate your gratitude for the reconciliation brought through Jesus?
Wednesday: Mark 4
What do we learn about peace from the story of Jesus calming the storm?
Thursday: Galatians 6 v 2
In what practical ways can you fulfil the command to be a peacemaker during your summer ministry?
Friday: James 1 vs 2-4
How can trials help to develop peace of mind in our lives?
