STAND FIRM: HE IS WHO HE SAYS HE IS! JEHOVAH SHALOM.
Jehovah Shalom: The Lord is Peace
In a world filled with turmoil, confusion, and conflict, the idea of peace can often seem distant and elusive. We live in a time of political turbulence, social unrest, broken relationships, and personal challenges that can weigh heavily on our hearts. Yet, there is a divine promise of peace that transcends circumstances. Jehovah Shalom, "The Lord is Peace," offers more than just the absence of conflict; He provides a peace that brings wholeness, well-being, and inner calm, no matter what storms may rage around us.
The Biblical Definition of Peace
The concept of peace, or "shalom" in Hebrew, carries a richness and depth that goes beyond our modern understanding. It is not merely the absence of strife or conflict but a state of completeness, well-being, and harmony. Peace, as described in Scripture, encompasses every aspect of life—emotional, relational, and spiritual wholeness. It is a state in which everything is in order, just as God intended.
In the Old Testament, peace is seen as wholeness of life and well-being. It speaks to emotional balance, spiritual fullness, and relational harmony. In the New Testament, the word "shalom" continues to denote quietness, rest, and reconciliation—reconciliation with God, with ourselves, and with others.
Isaiah 9:6 speaks of Jesus as the "Prince of Peace," whose reign will establish peace with no end. His government will bring justice and righteousness, and this peace is not temporary or fleeting—it is eternal. As believers, we have access to this peace through our relationship with Jesus Christ.
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end." (Isaiah 9:6-7)
The Peace that Surpasses Understanding
We all long for peace, especially in a world that feels increasingly chaotic. We see conflict in our communities, unrest in our nations, and personal challenges that can leave us feeling unsettled. But the peace that Jehovah Shalom offers is not dependent on external circumstances. It is a peace that can exist in the midst of turmoil, a peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Jesus assures us in John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
The peace that Jesus gives is different from what the world offers. The world may offer temporary relief or distractions, but Jesus offers a lasting peace that anchors us in Him. No matter the external storms we face, the storm doesn’t have to be inside us. The Lord speaks over our hearts, "Peace, be still."
Reconciliation: Peace with God, Self, and Others
At the heart of biblical peace is reconciliation. The greatest peace we can experience is being reconciled with God through Jesus Christ. Through His sacrifice, we are no longer separated from God by sin, but have peace with Him (Romans 5:1). This reconciliation brings a deep, inner peace—one that can transform our hearts and minds.
Once we are at peace with God, we can also experience peace within ourselves. This kind of inner peace comes from knowing that we are loved, forgiven, and secure in Christ. It is a peace that guards our hearts and minds, as Paul writes in Philippians 4:7.
From there, this peace extends outward, enabling us to be peacemakers in a world that desperately needs reconciliation. Jesus said, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" (Matthew 5:9). In a world torn apart by division and conflict, we are called to be instruments of His peace, as St. Francis of Assisi so beautifully prayed:
"Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope."
Living in Jehovah Shalom
Living in Jehovah Shalom means that we carry God’s peace with us, no matter what we face. This peace is available to us in every moment, in every situation. As Isaiah 26:3 reminds us, "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you."
Trusting in God is key to experiencing His peace. When we fix our eyes on Him and allow His presence to fill our hearts and minds, we can face any challenge with a sense of calm and assurance. The world may be in turmoil, but our hearts do not have to be. The Apostle Paul, who faced persecution and hardship, knew this peace well. He taught that no matter what trials we face, we can know a "tranquil state of appreciation and faith" when we submit and trust in Jehovah Shalom.
In every breath, every heartbeat, and every moment, God’s peace is available to us. When we turn our hearts to Him, we experience the fullness of His shalom—everything in order, as God intended.
Application Questions:
- In what areas of your life are you currently lacking peace? How does the biblical definition of "shalom" challenge your understanding of peace?
- How can you experience God’s peace in the midst of external chaos or personal struggles? What steps can you take to trust in Jehovah Shalom more deeply?
- How does knowing that Jesus is the "Prince of Peace" affect the way you view your relationship with God, yourself, and others?
- Reflect on a time when you experienced peace that surpassed your understanding. What role did your faith play in that moment?
- In what ways can you be a peacemaker in your family, community, or workplace? How can you carry the peace of God into the lives of those around you?
In these turbulent times, we need the peace of God more than ever. Jehovah Shalom invites us to experience His perfect peace—peace that brings wholeness, reconciliation, and rest. As we trust in Him, may we find that peace, carry it with us, and share it with a world in desperate need of shalom.