The Peace of God

There are three types of peace for a Christian:

• Peace with God: This is a heavenly peace (Rom 5:1–2; 8:6; Psa 119:11, 165; Rom 5:10; Eph 2:13; Col 1:20–22; Isa 9:6). We enter this peace when we are born again at baptism,1 and we keep it as we “walk by the Spirit,” “abide in Him [Jesus],”2 and are obedient to the commandments of Christ (and the instructions of His apostles).3 This is also the first aspect of being a “peacemaker” (Mat 5:9; cf. Rev 20:6).4 The Gospel is the source of this peace.
• Peace within yourself: This is inner peace—a state of calmness, stillness, sureness, and contentedness. Scripture tells us about “the peace of God”4a (Php 4:6–9; cf. Joh 14:27; 1Th 5:23; 2Th 3:16; 1Pe 5:6–7; Rom 8:6; 15:33; Heb 13:20–21; Isa 9:6; 41:10) and explains that we obtain it as follows: “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests [petitions] be made known to God.”5 God is the source of this peace.
• Peace with others: This is outer peace. Scripture tells us that we are a people “of peace” (see Luk 1:79; Eph 4:3; 6:15; Rom 14:17, 19; Heb 12:14; Jas 3:17–18; 1Pe 3:11; Mat 5:9; Rom 12:17–19; 15:33; Luk 6:29–31; 1Co 4:11–13; 14:33; Heb 10:30; 13:20; 2Th 3:16) and of “the gospel of peace” (Eph 6:15; cf. Mat 5:9; Isa 9:6) and “love” (Joh 3:16; 15:13; 1Co 13:1–13; Rom 13:8–10; Mar 12:31; 1Jo 4:7–8; Gal 5:22–23). The Gospel is not a Gospel of war, violence, coercion, intimidation, threats, anger, revenge, retaliation, vigilante justice, or vengeance (Mat 5:5, 9; Rom 12:18; 14:17, 19; 2Co 13:11; Gal 5:22; Eph 4:3; Heb 12:14; 1Pe 3:11; Psa 34:14; 120:7; Pro 12:20) but of love, kindness, compassion, peace, patience, forgiveness, mercy, and grace. We also enjoy this peace when we abide by the commandments of Christ,6 and this is the second aspect of being a “peacemaker” (Mat 5:9).7

The three types of peace are often related; for example, if you aren’t at peace with God, you won’t have inner peace, and if you don’t have inner peace, you very likely won’t be at peace with others either. While “the peace of God” is a very specific item,8 we’re going to be dealing with the subject from a broader perspective, with our main focus being on inner peace and peace with others because, if you are obedient to the Gospel, you have already made peace with God.8a Furthermore, as we go through this chapter you will see that the subjects of anxiety, worry, doubt, and fear (AWDF),8b trusting in God, understanding God, and peace are all interrelated. Let’s start by getting a handle on AWDF.8c

ANXIOUS FOR NOTHING

Is your life marked by a state of peace, inner calm, stillness, and sureness or one of constant uneasiness, turmoil, and AWDF over nearly all things? Now, the anxiety I’m talking about here is not the same as real physical fear9 or behavior caused or induced by a chemical imbalance or medical issues.10 I’m talking about the terrible anxiety that many seem to have in today’s world. It’s more than just constant worrying; it’s actually a debilitating state that one can enter into. Anxiety today is of epidemic proportions, even affecting Christians. But that just should not be the case—anxiety has no part in the life of a Christian (Php 4:6–7; 1Pe 5:6–7; cf. Rom 8:28–39; Psa 94:19; Isa 41:10). We are called to be warriors for Christ (2Ti 2:1–5), not worriers for Christ!

From a general human perspective, anxiety primarily manifests itself as a result of one (or more) of the following:

• Fear of/worrying about not getting something we want (new job, new car, more money, fame, fortune, power, boyfriend, girlfriend, wife, husband, children, etc.),
• Fear of/worrying about losing something we have (health, money, job, spouse, loved one, girlfriend, boyfriend, etc.),11
• Confusing needs versus wants,
• A mismatch between our expectations and reality,
• Seeking (and trying to force) our will to be done,
• Wanting things within our timeframe, and
• A general fear of the unknown (which most humans seem to have).

And now looking at it from a Christian perspective, anxiety is often related to a combination of the following:

• Not having a correct understanding of who God is,12
• A lack of faith (“You of little faith!”; see Mat 6:30; 8:26; 14:31; 16:8; Luk 12:28) and not “trusting in the Lord” completely for all things at all times,13
• Not knowing what is written in the Word of God or misunderstanding it (in particular, all the promises that God has made to us),
• Not obeying the simple instructions God has given us (e.g., Php 4:6–7), and
• Being “tricked” or “deceived” by false teachings, fake gospels, and fake prophecies of man that can destroy your hope.14

I realize the second item in the list above sounds pretty harsh, but that is the truth. We can, however, restate it as a positive:

• A Christian overcomes and defeats AWDF through faith, prayer, and unconditional “trust in the Lord” at all times, in all places, and for all things, regardless of circumstances, and we do so by the power and Spirit of Christ “abiding in us.”15

Now that sounds much better and gives us hope! Thus, to overcome and defeat anxiety as a Christian, we simply need to address the above elements of faith, and when we do this, anxiety will come under control.

Now, I’m not suggesting that as a Christian you will never have anxiety; I’m saying that such moments should be short-term and short-lived, and they shouldn’t take control of you to the extent that they alter your life, cause fear, or create the inability to make decisions and live your life normally. Understand that no matter where you find yourself, as a “child of God,”16 you have no reason for anxiety (Joh 16:33; Php 4:6–7; 1Pe 5:6–7; cf. Joh 19:30; Pro 29:25), for Christ is right there “with you” (Mat 28:20; 2Th 3:16; cf. Gen 28:15; Deu 31:6–8; Jos 1:5; Isa 41:10; Psa 23:4). He knows your situation, your circumstances, and your heart, and He promises to never leave, forget, or forsake you (Heb 13:5; cf. Deu 31:6–8; Jos 1:5; Isa 41:10; Psa 37:28; Mat 28:20; 2Ti 2:13). Remember, your hope, peace, and trust are in Christ, not in man or the things of this world (Heb 12:2; Psa 146:3–5; Num 23:19; Rom 3:4; Mat 6:33; Col 3:1; Tit 1:2; cf. Jer 17:5, 7; Psa 118:8–9; 146:3).

For as long as I can remember, I struggled with severe anxiety. It wasn’t until I finally realized what was causing it (a lack of faith and trust) that it went away. Now don’t get me wrong: Anxiety may still rise up from time to time, but I now recognize it for what it is, and it soon passes. And here is the important part: It doesn’t take control over me any longer. If anything, I now use such occasions to remind myself to “trust in the Lord” even more, remembering that everything that happens to a Christian is known to God (Rom 8:28–39; cf. 2Ti 2:13)—He is in control!

The “natural man” that is still in us even after we are born again (1Co 2:14; Rom 7:23) tends to have much anxiety centered around care and concern for the material things “of this world.” Notice also that we tend to worry endlessly about things we want, which are not always what we need. Scripture tells us that a Christian is not even supposed to worry and obsess about where their food, clothing, or shelter will come from (Mat 6:25–34; Luk 12:22–32; cf. 1Ti 6:17; Php 4:19)!17 It is very likely you are also spending a lot of time and energy worrying about things that will never happen and things that are completely out of your control. So when anxious thoughts arise, let us step back from them and “trust in the Lord.”

IS ANYTHING TOO DIFFICULT FOR THE LORD?

Having a correct understanding of God is essential in defeating AWDF, and it also helps you to “stand firm” (1Co 16:13) in your faith, even when facing difficult circumstances. When you experience AWDF, you are essentially thinking (or implying) that God doesn’t know what you need or what you are facing or that He might not be able to handle what’s happening to you or around you.19 And when you think this way, the truth is that you are making God small! I’m pretty sure that is not your intention, and perhaps you are doing so unconsciously, but there is still no escaping that conclusion.

But our God is a BIG God (Mat 19:26; Mar 10:27; Luk 1:37; 18:27; cf. Joh 10:28–30; Rom 8:31–39; 14:11; 1Co 15:27–28; 2Co 12:10; Eph 1:20–21; 3:20; 6:10; Php 2:10; 3:21; 4:13; Heb 2:8; 1Pe 3:22; 4:11; 1Jn 4:4; Rev 1:8; 22:13; Gen 18:14; Jos 1:9; 2Ki 6:15–17; 2Ch 20:15; Neh 8:10; Job 42:2; Psa 18:1–2; 23:4–6; 27:1–3; 28:7–8; 46:1–3; 56:4, 11; 84:11–12; 89:13; 91:1–16; 93:1; 95:3; 97:9; 118:6; Pro 21:31; Isa 40:28–29; 50:7–9; 54:17; Jer 1:19; 32:17, 27). He is the One who simply spoke (see Gen 1:3, 6, 9, 11; Psa 33:6, 9; 50:1; cf. Heb 1:2–3; 11:3; Isa 55:11; Psa 68:33), and this entire universe and all living things came into existence (Gen 1–2; Act 17:24–25; Joh 1:3–4; Col 1:16; Heb 1:3; Rev 4:11; Job 33:4–6; Psa 100:3; 139:14–15; Isa 64:8; Jer 10:12; 32:17; Job 36:1–4; cf. 1Co 15:45).

Imagine the power in such words! Yes, He is awesome in “might” (see Gen 17:1; 35:11; 43:14; 48:3; 49:25; Exo 6:3; Num 24:4; Psa 24:8; 50:1; 66:7; 89:8, 13; 93:4; 106:2; 132:2–5; 145:4, 12; 150:1–2; Isa 9:6; 10:21; 40:26; Jer 10:6; 32:18; Neh 9:32; Deu 10:17; Job 26:14; 2Co 6:18; Eph 1:19; 1Pe 5:6; Rev 1:8; 4:8; 11:17; 15:3; 16:7, 14, 18; 19:6, 15; 21:22; cf. Psa 147:5; 2Th 1:7; Rev 18:8) and “power” (see Exo 15:6; Psa 21:13; 29:4; 54:1; 59:11; 62:11; 63:2; 66:3; 68:35; 77:15; 78:26, 42; 79:11; 80:2; 106:8; 111:6; 145:6, 11; 1Ch 29:11; Jer 10:12; 32:17; Dan 2:20; Nah 1:3; Rom 1:16; 1Co 1:24; 2Co 4:7; Eph 3:19–20; Rev 11:17; cf. Gen 18:14; Mat 19:26; Mar 10:27; Luk 1:37; 18:27; 2Co 10:4; 2Ti 1:7; Psa 147:5; 18:2; 27:1; 61:3–4; 91:2; 144:2; Pro 8:14; 18:10; Isa 40:26–29; Jer 32:27; Job 26:14; Dan 4:35; Rev 10:1).

Therefore, always remember in whom you have placed your faith and trust:

• The “living and true God” (1Th 1:9; Joh 14:6; 17:3; 1Ti 1:17; Jer 10:10; 1Jn 5:20; Deu 4:35),
• “The Most High God” (Mar 5:7; Luk 8:28; Act 16:17; Heb 7:1; Psa 78:35, 56; Dan 3:26; 4:2; 5:18, 21; Gen 14:18–22; 2Sa 22:14; Luk 1:32–35, 76; 6:35; Act 7:48; Deu 32:8; 2Sa 22:14; Psa 7:17; 9:2; 18:13; 46:4; 57:2; 97:9);
• “The Almighty” God (see 2Co 6:18; Rev 1:8; 4:8; 11:17; 15:3; 16:7, 14; 19:6, 15; 21:22; Gen 17:1; 28:3; 35:11; 49:25; Job 8:5; 21:15; Psa 68:14; 91:1);
• The “Lord God of hosts” (see 2Sa 5:10; Psa 59:5; 80:19; 89:8; Isa 1:24; 3:1, 15; 10:24; Amo 9:5; 1Sa 1:3, 11; 4:4; 2Sa 5:10; Psa 24:10; 46:7; 48:8; 84:1–3; Isa 1:9; 5:7; 44:6; Jer 31:35; Mal 4:1);
• He who is “Holy, Holy, Holy” (Rev 4:8; cf. Isa 6:3; 1Pe 1:16; Lev 19:2; Act 7:33; Psa 11:4; 29:2; 103:1);20
• The Creator of all things on earth and in the heavens, whose very words give life (Gen 1:1–3; Col 1:16; Joh 1:3, 10; Rev 4:11; Psa 96:5; 115:15; 146:5–6; Job 38:1–42:6);
• He who now upholds every single particle, atom, molecule, planet, star, galaxy, and living creature in this entire unRomansiverse simply “by the word of His power” (Heb 1:3; cf. Psa 75:3; Joh 1:4; Col 1:17; Rev 4:11);
• He who rules and reigns supreme over all matters (Rom 8:28–39; 1Co 15:25–28; Mat 11:27; 26:64; 28:18; Joh 3:35; 13:3; Eph 1:30; Php 2:9–11; 2Ti 2:13; Heb 1:3–4, 13; 2:8; 8:1; 10:12; 12:2; 1Pe 3:22; Rev 1:18; Luk 22:69; Col 3:1; Act 7:55; Psa 8:6);
• He who never lies (Tit 1:2; Num 23:19; Heb 6:18; Rom 3:4; Jas 1:17);
• He who doesn’t change His mind (Heb 13:8; Jas 1:17; cf. 2Ti 2:13);
• He who doesn’t fail on His promises (Isa 40:8; 45:23; 55:11; Num 23:19; Psa 89:34; 119:89–91; Mat 5:18; 24:35; Joh 10:35; Pro 30:5; 1Pe 1:23–25; Hab 2:3; Luk 16:17; 21:33; Lam 2:17; 1Th 2:13; 2Ti 2:13; Rom 11:29; cf. 2Pe 1:20–21; 2Ti 3:16–17; Heb 4:12);
• He who is eternal—having no beginning or end (Joh 1:1–2; 8:58; 17:5; Rev 1:8, 17–18; 2:8; 21:6; 22:13; Heb 1:10–12; 13:8; 1Pe 1:20; Exo 3:13–14; Col 1:17; Isa 9:6; 43:13; Psa 90:2; Pro 8:22–30; Mic 5:2);
• He who is omniscient—all-knowing regarding the past, present, and future (Mat 6:8; 10:29–31; Luk 12:6–7, 30; 1Pe 3:12; Heb 4:12–13; 1Jn 3:20; Gen 16:13; 2Ch 16:9; Job 31:4; 34:21; Psa 11:4; 33:13–15; 34:15; 56:8; 66:7; 94:9–11; 139:1–4, 7–12, 15–16; 147:5; Pro 5:21; 15:3; Isa 46:10; Jer 23:24; 29:11; cf. 1Co 4:5; Rev 2:23; 20:11–12;
• He who is omnipresent—everywhere present with everyone all at once (2Ch 16:9; Job 34:21; Psa 34:15; Pro 5:21; 15:3; Jer 16:17; 32:19; Zec 4:10; Heb 4:13; 1Pe 3:12); and
• He who is omnipotent—all-powerful (Dan 4:35; Isa 43:13; 14:27; Gen 18:14; Job 42:1–2; Luk 1:37; Act 26:8; Jer 32:27; 1Co 15:22–28; Rev 19:20; 20:10–15; 21:1–8; Rom 14:11; Php 2:10; Mat 19:26; Mar 10:27; Luk 1:37; 18:27).

When you cannot take even one more step or when you see AWDF starting to rise up in you, cry out to God for His strength (Php 4:13; 2Co 12:10). He will lead you forward one day at a time to salvation (Php 3:12, 14; Heb 6:1). His strength is perfect.21 His will is perfect. He gave His life for you, and then He conquered death itself. So let us not make God smaller to fit our thoughts and beliefs of what we think He can or can’t do (Mat 19:26; Mar 10:27; Luk 1:37; 18:27).

GOD KNOWS AND SEES ALL THINGS

Because God is omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent, nothing ever surprises Him or catches Him off guard (1Jn 3:20; Psa 147:5; 139:4; Heb 4:13; Jer 29:11; Mat 10:30; cf. Joh 2:24–25; Pro 5:21; 15:3; Psa 11:4). He quite literally knows and sees all—the big picture and the smallest details—even when we cannot. There is nothing He cannot handle (Gen 18:14; Jer 32:27). Nothing overwhelms Him (1Jn 4:4). He doesn’t change His mind (Heb 13:8; Jas 1:17), He doesn’t lie (Tit 1:2; Num 23:19; Heb 6:18; Rom 3:4; Jas 1:17), and He doesn’t break His promises (2Ti 2:11–13). When you cry out to God in prayer, “He hears you” (see Joh 9:31; 1Jn 5:14–15; Psa 34:17; 65:2; 116:1; 145:18–19; Pro 15:29; cf. Heb 4:16; 7:25; 10:35; 1Jn 3:21; Mar 11:24–25; Eph 3:12; Jas 4:3; Php 4:6–7; Psa 17:6; Isa 30:19; Jer 29:12). He knows your voice, and you will know His (Joh 10:27). He knows everything about you22 (1Jn 3:20; Psa 147:5; 139:4; Heb 4:13; Jer 29:11; Mat 10:30), for “the eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His” (2Ch 16:9; cf. Psa 34:15; Pro 5:21; 15:3; 1Pe 3:12; Heb 4:13; Job 28:24; 34:21; Jer 16:17; 23:34).

Furthermore, at this very instant, Jesus is “seated at the right hand of God [the Father]” in heaven “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come” (Col 3:1; Eph 1:20–21; cf. Mat 22:44; 26:64; Mar 12:36; 14:62; 16:19; Luk 20:42; 22:69; Rom 8:34; Eph 1:20–22; 4:10; Act 1:9; 2:34; 7:55–56; Col 3:1; Heb 1:3, 13; 8:1; 10:12; 12:2; 1Pe 3:21–22; Psa 110:1; cff. Mat 28:18; Rom 14:11; Col 1:15–16; 2:10, 15; Php 2:9–11; Heb 2:8; 1Ti 6:15; Rev 1:5; 17:14; 19:15–16).[23] Nothing whatsoever happens to a Christian that He doesn’t fully know about and allow—ever. Thus, for a “child of God,” there is no such thing as good or bad luck, fortune, or coincidence. Moreover, we see it written, “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Rom 8:28–39; cf. Mat 10:29–31; 1Pe 3:12; Gen 45:5; 50:20; 2Ch 16:9; Psa 34:15; 145:18; Pro 5:21; 15:3). This includes both your good and also the collective good of all those who love Him and call on His holy name (cf. Php 1:12–14). Yes, as Christians we are now under the care of Jesus!

I find Romans 8:28–29 to be some of the most powerful anxiety-busting verses in all of Scripture. So let us be always mindful of whom it is that we are “abiding in” and who is “abiding in us.” Let us learn to press into Jesus when we are feeling anxious, “for His yoke is easy and His burden is light” (see Mat 11:30). Call on His strength, not your own,24 and then move forward, standing firm in faith and taking all things to Him in prayer.

TRUST IN THE LORD

Is your Christian faith25 rock solid, or are you tossed and turned by the trials, tribulations, and evil schemes of men (and women) in this world? In addition to prayer, “trusting in the Lord” (see Pro 3:5–6; Psa 4:5; 31:5–6; 37:3–7; 40:3; 115:9–11; 125:1; cf. Luk 23:46; Rom 4:18–22; 2Co 1:9; 4:13–14; Eph 1:13; Php 1:6, 14; 2:24; 1Ti 1:15; 2Ti 2:11; Heb 12:2; 1Pe 2:23; 4:19; Psa 31:5; 56:3, 11; 62:8; 91:2; 146:3–5; Pro 22:19; Isa 55:9; Jer 17:7–8) is a vital component of Christian faith, and a Christian should unconditionally “trust in the Lord” at all times, in all places, and for “all things”26 (Rom 8:28, 32; 11:36; Mat 19:26; Mar 9:23; 10:27; 11:24; 14:36; 2Ti 2:13) like a child trusts his parents (Mat 11:25–26; 18:3–4)—even for life itself, according to God’s will (Rom 8:36; 14:7–8; Mat 6:10; 10:29–30, 39; 26:42; Luk 22:25, 42; Act 20:24; 21:13; 1Co 4:19; Php 2:17, 30; 3:7–11; 1Th 5:10; Jas 4:15; Psa 44:22; cf. Joh 12:25; 15:13).

God will guide you, teach you, correct you,27 give you wisdom (Jas 1:5), and lead you in all ways that are holy, righteous, true, and good (Psa 23:3; Rom 12:2), according to His will (Mat 6:10; 26:42). Consider what “trusting in the Lord” means:

1. Believing deeply in who and what God is (see the “Understanding God” section above and the list following this one).
2. Believing every single word written in Scripture (Isa 55:11; 45:23; Num 23:19; Mat 5:18; Luk 16:17; Lam 2:17; 1Th 2:13; 1Pe 1:23; cf. 2Ti 3:16–17)—that God will do everything He has said He will do, which includes all His promises to us.
3. Trusting God even when you don’t understand why things are happening as they are (2Co 5:7). We must realize that we are not God, and we don’t know everything (Pro 3:5–7; 14:12; 16:25; Isa 55:8–9; Rom 11:33; 1Co 2:14, 16a; Psa 25:4; Job 38:1–7; Mat 11:25). Things happen for many reasons. Sometimes, we just will not know why on this side of heaven. At times, things happen for our good and for the testing and strengthening of our faith (Jas 1:2–4; Rom 5:3–4; 2Th 1:4; Heb 10:36). At other times, things may happen for our “discipline” (see 1Co 11:32; Heb 12:5–11; Rev 3:19; Joh 15:2; Psa 118:18; Pro 3:11; 6:23; 12:1; 13:1, 18; 15:32; 19:20, 27). And even further, things may happen to us for the (collective) good of other Christians and the glory of God (Rom 8:28–39; Joh 9:3; Php 1:12–14; Mat 10:29–31; 1Pe 3:12; Gen 45:5; 50:20; 2Ch 16:9; Psa 34:15; 145:18; Pro 5:21; 15:3).28

Furthermore, a Christian “trusts in the Lord” because of:

• Who He is: The Lord God Almighty, Creator of the heavens and the earth, is omniscient, omnipresent, omnipotent, eternal, and the one “living and true God” (1Th 1:9; cf. Isa 44:6).29
• What He is: He is good, caring, loving, merciful, patient, kind, compassionate, dependable, steadfast, faithful, slow to anger, generous, just, true, righteous, and holy.30
• What He has given up: He left His glory in heaven to dwell on earth as a man, living as a humble, sacrificial lamb (Joh 1:14; 6:22–58; Php 2:6–8) and experiencing the temptations of the flesh and this fallen world just like we do (Heb 4:15).
• What He has done: He willingly “gave Himself up for us” (see Eph 5:2, 25; Gal 2:20; cf. Mat 20:28; 26:53; Luk 9:51; Joh 10:11–18; 15:13; 19:17; Php 2:6–8; Heb 12:2; Isa 53:7–8) on the cross as a ransom to “rescue” and “redeem” us from “the domain of darkness,” where we were in “bondage” and “captivity” to sin, Satan, and death and headed for judgment (see Gal 1:4; 1Pe 1:18; Col 1:13; Eph 4:8; Joh 8:31–32; Rom 8:2; Gal 4:3).31
• What He has proven: Jesus proved that He is God and that He can fully reverse the curse of this world, control nature, heal the sick, raise the dead, and so on.32
• What He has promised: He has promised to “raise us up” (see Joh 6:39–40; cf. Col 3:4; 1Th 4:13–17; 2Ti 4:18) to “eternal life”33 on the “last day”34 to be with Him in heaven forever, which He described as “Paradise” (Luk 23:43; 2Co 12:3–4; Rev 2:7).35, 36
• Because He created us: For He is God, and we are not.37

We can learn much about trusting in the Lord by studying how the patriarchs of the faith and the apostles (e.g., Noah, Abraham, Moses, Daniel, Job, Peter, Paul, etc.) behaved, believed, and trusted in God even when they were faced with extremely harsh, dark, difficult, and dangerous situations.38 I encourage you to review their strength of faith even when facing the unknown (Heb 11:1–40). Additionally, many of them did not live to see the fulfillment of God’s promises to them, yet they still trusted Him completely. These are a few of my favorites:39

• Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego and the fiery furnace (Dan 3),
• Daniel and the lions’ den (Dan 6),
• Peter in prison (Act 12:1–17), and
• The sufferings of Paul (Act 9:15–16).

At first glance, the account of Peter in prison might seem like a strange passage to include in a chapter about peace but think about what was happening. Peter was arrested, thrown in jail, and facing serious charges—possibly even the death penalty (Act 12:1–17). And yet, on the very night before he was to appear before the judge for trial (and likely sentencing also), he was sleeping soundly and peacefully. Amazing! He was resting in the supernatural “peace of God.” He was confident in his faith and completely trusted the Lord, regardless of the outcome. Peter had done all he could, and now things rested in God’s hands—“Your will be done” (Mat 6:10; 26:42; cf. Pro 21:31).

OUR HOPE IS IN GOD, NOT IN MAN OR THINGS OF THIS WORLD

Lastly, the ultimate peace for a Christian rests in firmly believing that Jesus will once again come and gather all who “called on the name of the Lord” (see Act 2:21; 22:16; Rom 10:13; 1Co 1:2; cf. Gen 4:26; Isa 12:4; Psa 91:14–15; 105:1; 116:4, 13, 17) to be with Him in heaven forevermore (Joh 6:39–40; 14:3; Act 1:11; Tit 2:13; 1Co 1:7; Php 3:20–21; 2Ti 4:8; 2Pe 3:1–13; Jud 14; Rev 22:1–5, 20), where God and “righteousness dwells” (2Pe 3:13) and where there will be no more curse, corruption, sin, suffering, disease, and death.40 Remember also that God is our Justice, so leave all “judgment,” “vengeance,” “revenge,” “payback,” and “retribution” to Him (see Mat 5:38–46; 7:1; Luk 6:27–28, 37; 23:34; Act 7:60; Rom 12:14, 17–21; 16:20; 1Co 4:12–13; 13:4–5; 2Th 1:5–12; Heb 10:30; 12:29; Jas 1:19; 1Pe 2:23; 3:9; 2Pe 2:9; 3:7; Pro 25:21–22; Rev 14:7; 16:7). He will bring all things to light and all men and deeds into righteous and true judgment on the great Day of Judgment (Mat 12:36–37; Luk 12:2–3; Rom 2:1–16; 14:11–12; 1Co 4:5; 2Co 5:10; Gal 6:7–8; 2Pe 2:9; 3:7; Jud 14–15; Ecc 12:13–14; Rev 2:23; 20:11–12; cf. Rom 1:18; Heb 4:13; Job 24:14–15; 34:21-23; Isa 29:15; Dan 2:22; Pro 15:3).41 Trust Him to do that, for He alone “will render to each person according to his deeds” (Rom 2:6). Grant to others the same forgiveness God has granted to you (Mat 6:14–15).42 Jesus Christ is the one “living and true God” (1Th 1:9), the Lord God Almighty. He has conquered all, and He is already victorious (Joh 19:30). Rest in Him and His great name. I pray that you let “the peace of God” rule in your heart.

“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” – Joh 14:27

IN SUMMARY

We won’t be at peace (with God and with others), nor have “the peace of God,” when:

• We don’t trust God (2Co 1:9; Pro 3:5; 22:19; Psa 37:3, 5; 62:8; 115:9–11; 125:1; 146:3–5; cf. 2Co 4:13–14; Rom 4:18–22; Luk 23:46; Eph 1:13; Php 1:14; 2:24; 1Ti 1:15; 2Ti 2:11; 1Pe 2:23; 4:19; Psa 31:5; 37:7);
• We don’t think He can handle things (Isa 55:11; 45:23; Num 23:19; Mat 5:18; Luk 16:17; Lam 2:17; 1Th 2:13; 1Pe 1:23; cf. 2Ti 3:16–17);
• We don’t think He knows what we’re facing or going through (Mat 6:8; 10:29–31; Luk 12:6–7, 30; 1Pe 3:12; Heb 4:13; Gen 16:13; Exo 3:7; 2Ch 16:9; Job 31:4; 34:21; Psa 11:4; 23:1–6; 33:13–15; 34:15; 56:8; 66:7; 91:1–16; 94:9–11; 121:3–4; 139:1–4, 7–12, 15–16; Pro 5:21; 15:3; Jer 23:24);
• We are quarrelsome or judgmental (1Co 1:11; 2Ti 2:23–24; Jas 4:1–2);
• We are still under the control of “the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life” (1Jn 2:16);44
• We take vengeance into our own hands (Rom 12:17–21; Heb 12:29);45
• We try to solve all things through our own might and willpower instead of relying on the strength, wisdom, and might (Spirit) of the Lord;46
• We obsessively and endlessly worry about things of this material world, which we either want, need, or fear we may lose (Mat 6:25–34; Luk 12:22–32);
• We continue to focus on the “idols” (1Jn 5:21; Act 15:20, 29; 17:16; 21:25; 1Co 12:2; 2Co 6:16; 1Th 1:9; Rev 2:14, 20; 9:20; cf. Mat 6:19–21, 24; 23:14; Luk 3:14; 12:33–34; 1Ti 6:8–10; 2Ti 4:10; Tit 1:11; Pro 23:4–5; 28:20; Php 4:11; 1Ti 6:8; Heb 13:5; Rev 18:3, 9–21) “of this world”—fame, fortune, power, and so on; anything we place above God becomes an “idol” to us (Col 3:5);
• We are not “abiding in Him [Jesus]” (see 1Jn 2:6, 10, 24, 27–28; 3:6, 9, 17, 24; 4:12–13, 15–16; 2Jn 9; Joh 6:56; 14:20; 15:4–7, 9–10; 17:21) and “He in you [us]” (see Joh 5:38; 6:56; 14:17, 20, 25; 15:4–7, 9–10; 17:21; 2Ti 1:14; 1Jn 2:14, 24, 27–28; 3:24; 4:12–13, 15–16; 2Jn 2; Rom 8:9, 11; 1Co 3:16; Gal 2:20; Eph 2:22);
• We are not reading God’s Word regularly (i.e., “daily”);48
• We are not in constant and continual prayer with God (1Th 5:17; Luk 18:1; 21:36; Rom 12:12; Eph 6:18; Col 4:2; 1Pe 4:7);
• We are not thankful for all things at all times (2Co 9:11; Php 4:6; Col 3:15–16; 4:2; 1Ti 2:1; 1Th 5:16; Rev 7:12); or
• We are intruding and meddling in other people’s business, engaging in “gossip” (see Rom 1:29; 2Co 12:20; 1Ti 3:11; 5:13; 2Ti 3:3; Tit 2:3), and so on.

In contrast, we can be at peace (with God and with others) and have “the peace of God” when:

• We’ve “cast all our anxiety on Him” (see 1Pe 5:6–7; cf. Psa 55:22) and laid our cares, concerns, worries, doubts, and fears before Him through prayer, with thanksgiving, as instructed in Scripture (Php 4:6–7; Joh 14:27; 2Th 3:16; Rom 8:6), knowing that “He hears us” (see Joh 9:31; 1Jn 5:14–15; Psa 34:17; 65:2; 116:1; 145:18–19; Pro 15:29; cf. Heb 4:16; 7:25; 10:35; 1Jn 3:21; Mar 11:24–25; Eph 3:12; Jas 4:3; Php 4:6–7; Psa 17:6; Isa 30:19; Jer 29:12);
• We trust God completely in all things great or small and at all times—even in matters of life and death (2Co 1:9; Pro 3:5; 22:19; Psa 37:3, 5; 62:8; 115:9–11; 125:1; 146:3–5; cf. 2Co 4:13–14; Rom 4:18–22; Luk 23:46; Eph 1:13; Php 1:14; 2:24; 1Ti 1:15; 2Ti 2:11; 1Pe 2:23; 4:19; Psa 31:5; 37:7);
• We rely on God’s strength instead of our own strength;49
• We remember that our God is a BIG God, and we take time to stop and reflect on His unimaginable and awesome intelligence, wisdom, might, power, majesty, holiness, and glory;50
• We remember that He knows all things, everywhere, at all times—nothing whatsoever catches Him off guard or surprises Him (2Ch 16:9; 1Pe 3:12; Psa 34:15; Pro 5:21; 15:3; cf. Joh 2:24–25) and there isn’t anything He cannot handle (Mat 19:26; Mar 10:27; Luk 1:37; 18:27; Php 2:10; 4:13; Rom 8:31–39; 14:11; 1Jn 4:4; Joh 10:28–30; Rev 1:8; 22:13; Jos 1:9; Jer 1:19; Isa 50:7–9; 54:17; Psa 23:4–6; 27:1–3; 46:1–3; 56:4, 11; 84:11–12; 91:1–16; 118:6);
• We remember that there is no such thing as luck or coincidence for a Christian (Rom 8:28–39; cf. Php 1:12; Mat 10:29–31; 1Pe 3:12; Gen 45:5; 2Ch 16:9; Psa 34:15; 145:18; Pro 5:21; 15:3);
• We “seek the things above” (see Col 3:1; cf. Jas 4:4), not the material things “of this world,” with their attendant endless worries and anxiety (and decadent appeal to the lust of the flesh; Php 3:19–20);
• We are in prayer with God daily and continually (1Th 5:17; Luk 18:1; 21:36; Rom 12:12; Eph 6:18; Col 4:2; 1Pe 4:7);
• We remember that He is with us each and every second of every day: “I am with you always, even to the end of the age [world]” (Mat 28:20; cf. Gen 28:15; Deu 31:6–8; Jos 1:5; Isa 41:10; Psa 23:4);
• We let God be the judge of others (Mat 7:1; Luk 6:37; 12:57; Joh 7:24; Rom 14:3; Jas 4:11);
• We live at peace with all men (to the greatest extent possible; see Mat 5:5, 9; Rom 12:18; 14:17, 19; Mar 9:50; Gal 5:22; Eph 4:3; Col 3:15; 1Th 5:13; 2Ti 2:22; Heb 12:14; Jas 3:16–18; 1Pe 3:11; cf. Rom 15:33; 16:20; Php 4:9; 1Th 5:23; Heb 13:20; Psa 34:14; Pro 12:20);
• We leave all “judgment,” “vengeance,” “revenge,” “payback,” retaliation, and “retribution” to the Lord;
• We are not “envious” or jealous51 of evil men and women who prosper and have apparent success (and wealth) here in this world which are achieved through fraud, greed, corruption, and so on;51a
• We read and meditate on Scripture each day (Mat 4:4; Psa 1:2),52 being refreshed and encouraged by the examples of the saints who have gone before us and reminded of how they handled difficult situations, even when they were facing imminent death (Rom 15:4; 1Co 10:11);
• We remember that He will never lead us into temptation or give us more than we can handle (1Co 10:13);
• We’ve been diligent in preparing the best we can under the guidance of godly wisdom, and then we let the outcome (victory) be up to the Lord (Pro 21:31);53
• We remember that “God is not a man, that He should lie” (Num 23:19; cf. Rom 3:4), that “He is not a man that He should change His mind” (1Sa 15:29), and that every single one of His promises in Scripture will come true (Isa 40:8; 45:23; 55:11; Num 23:19; Psa 89:34; 119:89–91; Mat 5:18; 24:35; Joh 10:35; Pro 30:5; 1Pe 1:23–25; Hab 2:3; Luk 16:17; 21:33; Lam 2:17; 1Th 2:13; Rom 11:29; cf. 2Pe 1:20–21; 2Ti 3:16–17; Heb 4:13);
• We’ve put on “the full armor of God” (Eph 6:10–17) so we can “stand firm in the [our] faith”54 (see also 1Co 3:1–2; 14:20; Heb 5:12–14);55
• We remember that God has already won complete and total “victory” for us at the cross (“It is finished,” Joh 19:30; cf. Gen 3:15; Luk 10:18; Joh 12:31; 16:33; Rom 8:37; Eph 1:20–22; Col 2:14–15; Heb 2:14; 10:10–13; 1Co 15:24–27; 54–57; 2Ti 1:10; 1Jn 3:8; 4:4; 5:4; Rev 1:17–18; 12:7–13; 15:2; 20:14; 21:4);
• We look forward to eternal life in heaven, as He will “raise us up on the last day” (see Joh 6:39–40; cf. Col 3:4; 1Th 4:13–17; 2Ti 4:18) as He “makes all things new” (see Rev 21:5)56; and
• We are thankful to God for all things (2Co 9:11; Php 4:6; Col 3:15–16; 4:2; 1Ti 2:1; 1Th 5:16; Rev 7:12).

Let’s close this chapter with the following verse:

Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all! – 2Th 3:16