Sunday Sermon: The Precious Gift of Peace

by: Minister Denise N. Fyffe

Peace, five letters which are essential to any human being. It is what keeps us sane, happy, functional, and whole. Without it, our situation can seem dark and depressing. Peace. – Poetess Denise N. Fyffe.

Peace is a precious gift that God offers to His children. It is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of His grace and power. Peace is what enables us to face the challenges of life with confidence and hope. Peace is what Jesus promised to His followers, and what He left with them before He ascended to heaven.

Today, I want to share with you some biblical insights on how to experience God’s peace in your life, and how to be a peacemaker in a world that is full of conflict and strife.

What the Bible Says About Peace?

First, let us look at what the Bible says about peace.

The word “peace” in the Old Testament is “shalom”, which means wholeness, completeness, harmony, well-being, and prosperity. It is the result of God’s covenant relationship with His people, and His blessing upon them. In the New Testament, the word “peace” is “eirene”, which means tranquility, rest, and reconciliation. It is the result of God’s grace and forgiveness through Jesus Christ, and His gift of the Holy Spirit to His church.

The Bible tells us that peace comes from God, and that He is the source and giver of peace.

Here are some verses that affirm this truth:

• Numbers 6:24-26~ The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
• Isaiah 26:3~ You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.
• John 14:27 ~ Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
• 2 Thessalonians 3:16 ~ Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

Peace is a Fruit of the Spirit

The Bible also tells us that peace is a fruit of the Spirit, and that it is a sign of God’s presence and work in our lives.

Here are some verses that illustrate this point:

• Galatians 5:22-23 ~ But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
• Romans 14:17 ~ For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
• Philippians 4:7 ~ And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
• Colossians 3:15 ~ And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

How then can we experience God’s peace in our lives?

The Bible gives us some practical instructions on how to do so. Here are some steps that we can take to cultivate peace in our hearts and minds:

Trust in God and His promises.

Peace comes from faith in God’s sovereignty, goodness, and faithfulness. When we trust Him with our circumstances, we can rest in His care and provision. We can also claim His promises for our lives, such as Romans 8:28 ~ And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Pray and give thanks.

Peace comes from prayer and gratitude. When we pray, we acknowledge our dependence on God and invite Him to intervene in our situations. When we give thanks, we recognize His blessings and express our appreciation for His grace. We can also follow the example of Philippians 4:6 ~ Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Meditate on God’s word.

Peace comes from God’s word and truth. When we meditate on His word, we fill our minds with His wisdom and guidance. We also renew our minds according to His will and perspective. We can also memorize His word for our comfort and strength, such as Psalm 119:165 ~ Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.

Seek reconciliation with others.

Peace comes from forgiveness and harmony. When we seek reconciliation with others, we obey God’s commandment to love one another as He has loved us. We also reflect His character as peacemakers and children of God. We can also follow the instruction of Romans 12:18 ~ If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Conclusion

Finally, let us remember that peace is not only a personal experience, but also a social responsibility. As followers of Jesus, we are called to be peacemakers in a world that is full of violence and hatred. We are called to share the gospel of peace with those who do not know God, and to promote justice and righteousness with those who are oppressed and marginalized. We are called to be salt and light in a dark and decaying world.

Bible Study

Here are some verses that challenge us to be peacemakers in our society:

• Matthew 5:9 ~ Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
• James 3:18 ~ Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
• Hebrews 12:14 ~ Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.
• 1 Peter 3:11 ~ They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it.

I hope this has encouraged you to seek God’s peace in your life, and to be a peacemaker in your world. May the God of peace fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Amen, and be encouraged.

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About the writer:
Minister Denise N. Fyffe is a published author of over 50 fiction and non-fiction books. She started Revealing the Christian Life Ministry to help other Christians and provide support. She is also a trainer and mentors aspiring writers towards achieving their goals.