Peace

Peace and joy are closely connected. The birth of Jesus is not only “good news of great joy” but also of “peace on earth” (Luke 2:10,14). Both “peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” are hallmarks of God’s kingdom (Rom.14:17), hence the blessing, “May God fill you with all joy and peace” (Rom.15:13). “Rejoice in the Lord always” is followed with the promise of “a peace which passes all understanding” (Phil.4:4-7).

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The Hebrew word shalom has a rich meaning which includes tranquility, contentment and security. Peace is about right relationship, both with God and with people. Through Jesus we have “peace with God” (Rom.5:1) – it’s his gift to us (John 14:27). That peace needs to be guarded and maintained – we are to “make every effort” to be at peace with God and with all people (2 Pet.3:14; Heb.12:14), by letting the peace of Christ rule in our hearts (Col.3:15).

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Trust/faith in God is central to doing that. Peace with God is found “through faith in Jesus” (Rom.5:1). It’s as “you trust in him” that you will be filled with all peace and joy (Rom.15:13). And the peace which passes all understanding is known when we bring all our anxieties to God and entrust them to him (Phil.4:6-7; Isaiah 26:3-4).