May the Lord of peace himself give you peace… in every way. 2 Thessalonians 3:16
You might find it helpful to think of God’s peace as resting on three pillars—getting right with God, showing gentleness to others, and having peace with yourself.
1. Peace with God. “Since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom. 5:1). Christ died for your sins and rose for your justification, and faith makes what Jesus accomplished yours. That’s how you can have peace with God.
Do you have peace with God, or are you running from Him today? Are you hiding from God? Are you reluctant to pray? What has you running from God? Do you feel that God is against you, or has it in for you, or is condemning you? Would you like to have peace with God today?
2. Peace with others. “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all” (Rom. 12:18). You can’t control what others do or say in a situation of conflict. God says, “Consider your own part in this… as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
3. Peace with yourself. “The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:7). You can have peace with God and still be in turmoil yourself. Can you say, “Return, O my soul, to your rest; for the LORD has dealt bountifully with you” (Psa. 116:7)? What do you know of this peace within your soul?
If someone hurts you deeply, it opens wounds that can fester with bitterness, pride, and even hatred. You hear Christ say, “Love your enemies. Pray for those who persecute you.” Do you need to know more of this peace?
