Finding Peace

Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied (Jude 1:2).

Peace is a theme in both the Old and New Testaments. The Hebrew word, shalom, is a richly textured word with far more meaning than the English word, peace. Shalom means wholeness, soundness, harmony, and more. This is the peace Adam and Eve experienced in the Garden of Eden. It's a vertical peace reaching up to God, a horizontal peace with all creation, and an internal peace with ourselves. Sin shattered this complete peace. 

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: (John 14:27a).

When the prophets speak of peace, they're referring to restoration, a renewal of our relationship with God. Only the Lord can bring wholeness and lasting peace. We have a tendency to think, if we can control our circumstances, we will find peace. But true peace doesn't come from eliminating problems. It comes from surrendering to the Prince of Peace and depending on Him. As one book puts it, "The Bible never tells us to 'chase peace.' It tells us to pursue Christ. And when we do, peace comes as a byproduct . . ."

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world (John 16:33).

Genuine peace is rooted in a personal relationship with the Lord. "Security doesn't come from predictable circumstances. It comes from a trustworthy Savior." The closer we stay to God, the deeper our peace becomes. When He and things of faith are our top priority, we experience a level of peace the world can't take away. Knowing that He holds us, walks with us, and has a glorious eternity prepared for us lightens the burdens of living in a fallen world and brings a peace that passes all understanding.

(Quotes from A Biblical Guide to Overcoming Anxiety by Good Books & Faith Beacon Publishing)

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