The Fruit of the Spirit is Peace...

Peace … it sure seems elusive in this world, doesn’t it? In the news, we may hear of peace talks, but these “peace talks” rarely produce much of anything. Then, if we keep listening, we find that the news report knows nothing of peace. Instead, we hear of violence, murder, and war. For the world, peace must seem like an unobtainable goal or some pie-in-the-sky dream. That’s because this world doesn’t understand where true peace comes from. It doesn’t come from treaties or peace talks. It comes from God alone.

Jesus proclaimed, “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) Jesus knew that the disciples, and all of us, would face hard times. He knew that we would need peace that goes far beyond anything this world can understand (Phil. 4:7). Then, speaking about his upcoming trial and crucifixion, Jesus explained, “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) So, true peace, comes from God, through Christ. In times of trouble, we remember that Christ has overcome the world. Those who have accepted Him as Lord and Savior also know that our future is secure. Yes, we will face trials and tribulations in this world, but we have also been promised a future in His presence, where there will be peace forevermore! In the meantime,

… Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. (Colossians 3:15-16)

In His grip,
Pastor Decker