Ask someone what the word “peace” means to them and they will respond with very different answers. Some will include the “absence of war,” or “an agreement to end hostilities” or “freedom from quarrels or disagreements” or “a nation at peace.” Each of them has a certain sense of calmness among or between people in them. But peace in God’s Word has a much different meaning to it.

In God’s Word it means something quite different. It often refers to a person’s “completeness” or “well-being” or “soundness.” So, even though the world may be engulfed in war, an individual may have a sense of security or well-being that the world cannot understand or enjoy.

The world has been in utter chaos through man’s sin. Ever since Adam and Eve chose to disobey God there has been constant conflict - either personal, between people or nations - because of sin. And the world will be in conflict until Christ rules and reigns in the hearts of man.

“Great peace,” wrote the Psalmist, “have those who love Your law, and nothing can make them stumble.” For sinful man there must first be peace with God that only comes from the removal of sin through the death of Christ. This peace will permeate the life of the Christian because God will guard and guide the believer every moment of every day. First, we must let go of the “things” of this world and let God have His way in us. Then, follow the path He has designed for us. “Great peace” and no fear of “stumbling” will then be ours. 

When we have a lack of peace in our hearts, it is God alerting us to sin in our lives.