November 8

The Fruit Of The Spirit--Peace

Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid. — John 14:27 BSB

Being justified by faith in His blood, we have peace! How can there be peace while a guilty conscience dreads every approaching footstep, fearing it brings arrest? Even if a wealthy wrongdoer surrounds themselves with luxury, what is it worth when they constantly fear their crime being discovered? The first condition for peace is to see your sins borne by Christ in His own body on the cross.

The second condition is to keep His words and commandments. See every duty as your Master’s call. Do everything in His name and for His glory. This is how Jesus lived. He came not to do His own will but the Father’s, and in every situation, He sensed God’s bell ringing with a new opportunity for service. Sometimes you must bear His will, at other times fulfill it. Each day, say to Him: “I delight to do Your will, O my God.” The rule of duty is transformed into the service of love, where no sacrifice is too great, and no offering too costly.

Peace for the troubled heart! Jesus knows your human affections and anxieties. He doesn’t expect you to be entirely absorbed in His concerns while ignoring your own. He knows where your loved ones are, their names, needs, and sorrows. He will do exceedingly, abundantly more for them than you can imagine. Didn’t David take care of Mephibosheth for Jonathan’s sake? Didn’t the Lord heal Peter’s mother-in-law out of love for Peter? Hand over all your anxieties to Christ, for yourself and for others. Pass it on and let it go. Let the peace of Christ stand guard over your heart and mind, ruling as the ultimate judge of your thoughts and actions. If any thought disrupts your peace, arrest it at the door. If any passion threatens your inner harmony, let the peace of Christ be the solution. “My peace,” He said—the peace that kept and ruled His own heart. He offers us that same peace, not just for the future, but here and now. It is His legacy to us, guaranteed by His blood and by the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer

O Lord, may I not be content with simply refraining from sin. As I abide in You, may I bear the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, and peace—to Your honor and glory. Amen.