The Power of Peace

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." (Colossians 3:15, NIV)

Peace often seems an elusive goal. We seek peace but conflict ensues. How can we know true peace? Paul gives us three steps.

First, peace begins in the heart. We must first receive the peace of Christ before we can be at peace with ourselves or with others. This peace comes as a result of trusting in Jesus Christ who gives us peace with God (Rom 5:1). But we must choose to let this peace rule in our hearts. At any given moment numerous and conflicting desires compete for attention. The peace of Christ is a still, small voice in the midst of this clamor. We must discipline ourselves to listen to this voice and ignore the others.

Second, peace is a function of the body of Christ. The Lord has called us to live in peace and to be diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace (Eph 4:3). This requires hard work. Many times it is easier to let things go or to gossip against others than to labor for real peace, but these are not options.

Third, we are to be thankful. It’s amazing how giving thanks to God can cultivate peace in the heart. It’s wonderful how expressing our gratitude toward others can promote peace in our relationships.

Let’s seek to put these three things into practice today and discover the marvelous power of peace!