The gift of peace

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all. HERE IS MY GREETING IN MY OWN HANDWRITING—PAUL. I DO THIS IN ALL MY LETTERS TO PROVE THEY ARE FROM ME. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:16-18 NLT

As Paul closes out his letter, he provides a summation as to what believers in Thessalonica need that will sustain them until the end of the race. It is the peace that comes from God is what believers need. Since Christ is the Lord of peace, having Him in one’s life guarantees that His presence within will result in experiencing the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). This is what God promised to those that placed their trust in Him. Not only the peace that sustains believers during times of difficulties but also the peace that will help transform their lives reflecting His holiness. “Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again” (1 Thessalonians 5:23). Paul prayed on behalf of believers that this peace will always be a part of their lives. God alone is the source of real peace and it is a gift that He gives to His followers. “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid” (John 14:27). The gift of peace is permanent for it is not dependent upon our circumstances. It will always be available and felt whether in times of persecution and suffering, or in every turn of life. In order for this peace to be a continual experience in life, we must always abide in Christ. “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” (Isaiah 26:3). Peace is included in one of the fruits given to those who yield their lives to the working of the Holy Spirit (see Galatians 5:22). Stop wasting your efforts striving on things that will not last and will not provide you peace. Instead, let Christ reign in your hearts and your faith constantly focused on Him. “Be still, and know that I am God!” (Psalm 46:10).

Blessings,