In His Name Devotionals
PEACE
In His Name Devotionals
PEACE
“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 1:2 NIV)
Throughout history mankind has sought peace through military alliances, balances of power, and leagues of nations. Yet, lasting peace still remains an elusive dream. Even during times of relative peace, nations struggle with internal strife and crime.
The Holy Scriptures state that man on his own cannot know peace, because he is alienated from its source. But, you need not despair. True peace is immediately available from:
God, your Father, “the God of peace” (Romans 15:33)—and from your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the “prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
It is a gift of God’s grace to those who love and obey Him.
The Scriptures clearly teach the inextricable link between God’s grace and peace. In fact, “Grace to you and peace” became a common greeting in the early churches of Christ (Rom 16:16). Grace is God’s great kindness toward those who are undeserving of His favor, but who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ. It is the fountain, and peace is the stream. As a recipient of His grace: You have “Peace with God” (Romans 5:1);
You are reconciled to Him through faith in His Son; You will never experience His wrath: and You have the “peace of God” (Philippians 4:7), i.e., the Spirit’s way of assuring that God is in control even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
That’s why Paul calls it peace that “surpasses all comprehension” (Philippians 4:7).
The world’s peace is relative and fleeting because it is grounded in circumstances. God’s peace is absolute and eternal because it is grounded in His grace.
Does God’s peace reign in your heart today? Have you allowed sin or difficult circumstances to diminish your devotion to Christ?
