HOW to Have Peace
Peace is an ardent desire for many (most?) of us. Biblically, peace is a tranquil attitude, an overwhelming sense of well-being. It is peace beyond comprehension. No matter the circumstances. But how?
Have peace with God
This supernatural peace is only possible IF you have peace with God, only IF you have been reconciled with God.
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:1)
If a person has not received Christ, they are God’s enemies. (Romans 5:10; Ephesians 2:3)
“There is no peace for the wicked,” says the Lord. (Isaiah 48:22)
Peace from God
After we have received Christ as Lord and Savior, He is in us, and He gives us HIS peace.
Peace I [Jesus] leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. (John 14:27)
Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. (2 Thessalonians 3:16)
Apply it
You have peace with God and peace from God. You have received peace. Now we need to learn how to apply God’s peace (lay hold of it; have God’s peace rule in our lives).
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. (Colossians 3:15)
This is a call to spiritual growth. Strive to increasingly know God—Father, Son, Holy Spirit. Study and meditate on God’s Word. Strive to stay connected (John 15:1-7).
Focus your eyes on Jesus, not the problem. Let Him rule.
Trust
God is almighty: Sovereign over everything and everybody all the time. (And, at the same time, we are responsible.) Trust Him.
He promised peace and never lies. Trust Him.
The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You. (Isaiah 26:3)
He will not fear evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord. (Psalm 112:7)
These things I [Jesus] have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)
Thanksgiving
Develop the attitude of gratitude. God is in control, loves you, and is working His holy plan.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6–7)
Don’t miss that crucial middle step: Anxiety then prayer, then thanksgiving for however your loving sovereign God answers, and then peace.
Live Righteously
Believe what He says. Do what He says.
The great enemy of peace is sin.
And the work of righteousness will be peace, And the service of righteousness, quietness and confidence forever. (Isaiah 32:17)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. (Galatians 5:22–23)
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Father, Son, Holy Spirit, thank You for saving us, giving us Your peace, and making peace active in our lives. Help us know You better and better, and live in newness of the life You have given us. Remind us of all this when we are not living in Your peace.
