PEACE: GOD’S PRIORITY

Glory to God in the highest, and ON EARTH PEACE, good will toward men – Luke 2:14

PEACE is a priority in life. It is a primary need at both personal and societal levels. The presence of peace is to be cherished above possessions without peace. People who pursue wealth at the expense of peace of mind often end up losing. There is also a global lack of peace in today’s world: economic down-turns, tribal conflicts, genocides, perplexities, turmoil, and wars pervade nations and regions. Peace or the absence of it at the level of society often affects individuals’ peace of mind. Lack of peace produces fear, confusion, and insecurity. Vision, development or progress stagnate where there is no peace.

We live in turbulent times, when Peace is a vital need. Amidst all of the storms, stress, perplexities, turmoil, and troubles, God is able to display and willing to demonstrate His Peace in the hearts and lives of His children. The birth of Jesus ushered in an era of peace, with the flawless angelic announcement: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, PEACE, goodwill toward men” (Luke 2:14). The antidote against the pain and panic on earth is for us to encounter Peace WITH God, experience the Peace OF God, and attain Peace IN God. This is why no one can boast of safety or security except in Christ.

When you come to Jesus – the Author of Peace – He dwells IN you with His peace and also surrounds you like a shield. He keeps evil and evil-doers away from you and makes you dwell in peace: “My people will dwell in a peaceful habitation and in quiet resting places” (Isa.32:18). He also keeps your mind at peace; but you must persist in loving and trusting Him with all your heart. “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty” (Psa.91:1).

Peace is God’s plan and priority for you. It is His plan that you should be delivered from your enemies in order to serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness all the days of your life (Luke 1:74-75). It is His priority that you enjoy peace within and without. Whatever negates those plans must not be tolerated. As we continue this month to ponder on peace, you must stand on His Word, claim it, pray it, prophesy and confess it.