By now we’re all craving some peace. After functioning in a climate of conflict and worry over things like politics and the Pandemic, our whole self could use some shalom—biblical peace. We want to be whole again. The harmony and well-being we’re born craving surpasses the situations and circumstances of life. Focusing on five biblical truths about peace will help us to be whole again after a time of brokenness.
Peace is a square peg in a round hole – EARTH
Facing the sacrifice of His own life, Jesus passed on truths His followers would need in a world where trouble is common (Romans 8:35). “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) For now, the kind of wholeness and harmony we long for, the kind we’re meant to know, isn’t at home here. Heavenly peace is a square peg in the round hole of earth. If it feels like you’re longing for something that’s out of this world, you are.
Peace is possible and possibly perfect – HEAVEN
Peace where things are as they’re meant to be, shalom, may be a square peg here, but it’s not impossible. In fact, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you,” (Isaiah 26:3). In fact, perfect peace is literally “shalom shalom,” or a complete and whole harmony and well-being. Rather than a holy huddle mindset, this is steadfast thinking focused on thinking in God’s ways. Heavenly values, rather than earthly values. Thinking aligned with God’s truth leads to a state of well-being, whatever the events swirling around us. It’s the kind of prayer-engaged peace beyond our ability to grasp it, but able to guard our spirit, emotions, and thoughts (Philippians 4:6-7). “Peace-peace,” whole peace, is possible.
Peace was left with us for us – JESUS
Jesus is the means by which we can know harmony while living in chaos. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid,” (John 14:27). In truth, Jesus left His peace with us after He did the sacrificial work of securing it for us. Because of that, despite the dark condition of the world and our individual brokenness, our faith declares us whole through Jesus. He restores our intended relationship with God and gives us His peace in the process. (Romans 5:1)
Peace is the best behavior – NOW
In a world craving wholeness, those who find it through Jesus are called to, “Strive for peace with everyone,” (Hebrews 12:14a). For now, as a peaceful presence among a world at war with itself, the best behavior is seeking the well-being of our neighbors. MacArthur says, “It is a goodness of life that is not touched by what happens on the outside.” Of course, if our habits fail to display a heart loving harmony, we’re just a lot of noise (1 Corinthians 13:1).
Peace is coming, but later – FOREVER
Sadly, not everyone wants to be a peaceful presence. Some people love violence and conflict like God’s people are meant to love harmony. We can experience peace even with our enemies (Proverbs 16:7). With this in mind, will there ever come a time when we’ll have total peace? Everywhere? For everyone? Yes, but not yet.
Jesus came to bring peace to the world where sin made peace a square peg in a round hole. Nevertheless, he makes it possible to know this state of assured well-being. When peace comes to our heart, it should overflow in our peaceful presence to those around us. The Bible says that the Prince of Peace, Jesus Himself, will one day deliver whole harmony to His whole creation. It will arrive without a term limit or expiration date; it’s the way it’s meant to be in God’s design.
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end …” (Isaiah 9:6-7)
Ultimately, Biblical “Peace” refers to the way things are meant to be —which is why it feels out of reach from here and now. We feel things can’t be meant to be like his, because things aren’t meant to stay like this. But we can have some shalom now. And when peace comes in full one day, it will be here to stay.
