The Fruits Of The Spirit - Peace

very sober thinking person seeks for peace in life. However, the problem with most people is that the true source of peace is not generally known. Many seek it in power, others in pleasure or money. Solomon tried all these ways that men considered to bring peace and happiness to their lives. His conclusion: "..Vanity of vanities; all is vanity" (Ecc.l:2). The closing chapter of Ecclesiastes gives the source of real peace. Beginning in our youth to remember Jehovah, we must conclude our lives in fearing God and keeping His commandments (Ecc.12:l, 13-14). This brings true peace, especially in view of the final Judgment Day.

GOD PROVIDES IT

There is one who is able to provide real and lasting peace. He is called the "God of love and peace" (II Cor.13:11). God provides mankind with peace through the gift of His Son, whom Isaiah proclaimed as the "prince of peace" (Isa.9:6). Paul wrote, "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God" (Rom.5:l-2). We are all subject to obedience to Christ in the same way and by the same plan of salvation (Heb.5:8-9; Gal.3:26-29). How sweet is the peace the Christian possesses when by forgiveness all is right with God! (Eph.l:7).

CHRIST SUPPLIES IT

When we live for Christ, without compromising teachings and actions contrary to His authority, our lives are blessed beyond measure with peace. To these Jesus says, "...I will be with you always" (Matt.28:18-20). That is the source of "Peace, Peace, Sweet Peace!" Peace comes with freedom from sin. Jesus states, "Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John.8:32). Paul agreed by saying to Christians, "Being careful (or worried) for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God;" then "The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Phil.4:6-7).

WE MUST ABIDE IN IT

Peace is lost by turning away from the teaching of Christ (Eph.5:11; 2 John 9-11). We should follow our Lord and His apostles in never compromising the Truth, thinking that we may have peace!

GaryColley
172 Lakeview Dr.
McMinnville, TN 37110

(Gary Colley did such a wonderful job with the last issue’s article on the Fruit Of The Spirit, and we are pleased to have him write a series of articles on each of the fruits of the spirit that we read about in Galatians 5:22-23. -FS)