When most people think of peace, they tend to think about periods of history or times in their lives where, at the minimum, bad things weren’t happening and good things were happening.
But even when things seem calm, peace can feel fragile. One phone call, one unexpected bill, or one painful loss can shatter our sense of peace.
This understanding of peace is just one part of the picture when it comes to the virtue of peace that is produced in us when we remain in Jesus and His Spirit works in us. The peace that the Holy Spirit allows us to experience is a peace that transcends our struggles and is unshaken by our circumstances.
What Is Peace in the Bible?
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 NIV
The Bible offers a different kind of peace. Real peace is not just the absence of trouble but the presence of God. It is deeper than circumstances and stronger than fear. Scripture calls this peace shalom.
Shalom is the joining together of God, humanity, and all creation in justice, fulfillment, and goodness. It is life as it was meant to be. It is what every heart longs for, whether we realize it or not.
In the New Testament, peace is tied to the Holy Spirit, who produces peace in us as we stay connected to Him.
This kind of peace does not depend on a perfect life. It is the steady confidence that God is with us, making things whole even in a broken world.
How Jesus Brings True Peace
After being murdered on a Roman cross, Jesus appeared to His disciples, who were huddled away in a locked room, afraid that they were going to be taken out next.
He said to them, “Shalom be with you.” Peace, and so much more. And because they probably couldn’t believe their own eyes and ears, Jesus showed them His nail-scarred hands.
As he spoke, he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord! Again he said, “Peace [shalom] be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.” Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” John 20:20-22 NLT
Peace was not just something Jesus talked about; it was something He gave.
Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus made peace between us and God. Jesus came to bring shalom. Goodness, justice, and fulfillment. Peace with God, others, and ourselves.
Through our sin, shalom was ravaged. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, it is being restored. Our world was broken, but Jesus came to put it back together. Starting with us. Paul tells us:
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. … Romans 5:1-2 NIV
The peace Jesus offers is so much more than just the absence of problems.
The peace Jesus offers is so much more than just the absence of problems. His peace brings with it the promise of eternal life with God, a purpose that nothing in this world can take away, and a hope that, no matter how difficult the present may be, God is directing our future.
Jesus is not only the one who offers peace; He is peace. He came to bring shalom—goodness, justice, and wholeness. And just as He sent His disciples into the world with this message, He sends us to bring His peace into our relationships and communities.
How We Can Experience God’s Peace Today
Peace with God is a gift, but living with daily peace is also a practice. Here are three ways you can bring more of His peace into your daily life.
First, Remember the Lord Is Coming Soon
... Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Philippians 4:5 NLT
Take time to look back on what Jesus has done, so you can look forward to what He will do. There will come a day when He returns to finish what He started, to right every wrong and establish perfect peace.
Second, Pray About Everything You’re Tempted to Worry About
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
Worrying does not make things better. It robs you of the peace you could have today for problems you might face tomorrow. That doesn’t mean those problems aren’t real. Instead, you can wisely prepare by praying to the One who works all things together for good.
Third, Fix Your Thoughts on What’s Good
... whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 NIV
Instead of letting your thoughts run wild, take them captive and set them on what is true, noble, and beautiful.
When you practice these steps, the God of peace is with you. His Spirit will shape your heart so you can stand steady even in difficult circumstances.
Why Peace Matters in a Broken World
Our world is filled with conflict, fear, and anxiety. We see it in the headlines and feel it in our own homes. In a culture that chases comfort but rarely finds lasting peace, the Bible points us to something better.
Peace matters because it shows the gospel is real. When followers of Jesus live with God’s peace, it becomes a witness to the world. Peace shows that God’s presence changes everything. It reminds people that hope is possible even in a fallen world.
The peace Jesus gives is not just for us to keep. It is meant to flow through us. We are not only recipients of peace, we are called to be peacemakers. As Jesus said,
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9 NIV
Reflect or Discuss
- When you think about peace, do you imagine calm circumstances or God’s presence?
- What practices help you experience God’s peace when life feels uncertain?
- How might God be calling you to share His peace with others this week?
Bible Verses About Peace
Peace and the Fruit of the Spirit
- But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 NIV
- 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 Through Jesus Christ
- Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ … Romans 5:1 NIV
- 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. Isaiah 9:6 NIV
- 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. John 14:27 NIV
Peace in a Broken World
- Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9 NIV
- Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. Psalm 34:14 NIV
- If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18 NIV
- Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21 NIV