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If there is one thing this world needs more than almost anything else, it is peace. Just turn on the news and you will see that it conflict abounds in nearly every arena possible. There are conflicts between nations, within our own political parties, in families, and even within individual's minds. The state of our world is far removed from the declaration of the heavenly host at the time of Jesus' birth, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" (Luke 2:14)
Though peace seems to be lacking, we can walk in peace. We can have peace with God, the peace of God, and peace with others. Paul started most of his letters with the phrase, "Grace and peace." In order for us to have true peace, we must first experience God's grace. Romans 5:1 says, "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." When Jesus died on the cross and was raised, He broke down the wall that separated a holy God from sinful men. Colossians 1:19-20 says, "For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross."
Once we have peace with God, we can experience the peace of God. Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27) Even though we can have the peace of God, it doesn't always come easily. There are some things we can do, however, that will help us walk in His wonderful peace.
Isaiah 26:3 says, "You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You." Instead of focusing on the situation or circumstance that is causing unrest, we need to keep our mind focused on God. He is big enough and strong enough to handle anything we are facing. We need to learn to cast our cares on Him because he cares for us (I Peter 5:7). In the Message Bible this verse says, "Live carefree before God." Doesn't that sound like a wonderful way to live?
Once we have made peace with God and are walking in the peace of God, we can have peace with others. Matthew 5:9 says, "Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the sons of God." In times of conflict with others, we can only do so much and then it is up to the other person to be willing to make peace. I believe that is why Paul said in Romans 12:18, "If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men." We are to do what we can to have peace in relationships, then it is up to the other person and God to work the rest out. But at least we have done our part.
There are many promises about peace, but here are just a couple. Psalm 29:11 says, "The Lord will give strength to His people. The Lord will bless His people with peace." Psalm 85:8 says, "For He will speak peace to His people." Many people have trouble sleeping because they are concerned or worried. A great promise to stand on is, "In peace I will both lie down and sleep, For You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety." (Psalm 4:8)
I pray you have experienced peace with God so you can live in the peace of God and walk in peace with others. May grace and peace be multiplied to you!