THE HUB

Peace

Devotional

What if the problem isn’t that peace is so far off? What if the problem is that we don’t actually understand peace as the Bible means it? In the Bible, peace is not about the absence of conflict, but about the presence of God. Shalom, the Hebrew word for peace, is about completeness and welfare. Shalom is when we're in good standing with God, people, and ourselves. In this teaching, we discuss how we can access peace biblically.

3 You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!

ISAIAH 26:3

8 Finally, brothers and sisters, 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. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

PHILIPPIANS 4:8-9

Questions:

  • How would you describe our society's defintion of perfect peace?
  • In what way(s), have you sought peace in this season of your life?
  • "Perfect peace is when your thoughts are resting on God." What are your thoughts or reactions to this quote?
  • Where are you still experiencing fear and where do you need to experience greater peace that’s on offer through God’s presence?
  • When is it most difficult for you to practice the presence of God?
  • How can this group help you to better practice the presence of God?

Practice The Way of Jesus:

Grab a candle (any kind will do!). Quiet your mind and body. Once you’re ready you can light the candle, remembering that peace is not about the absence of conflict, but about the presence of God. As you sit there, think about how you can better practice the presence of God this week. Whether that’s spending your mornings in nature to pray, engaging in scripture or getting mor etime with brothers and sisters outside of church events. Whatever it is, engage this week in God’s presence. Ask for God to fill you with His Spirit of Peace, so that you become someone who brings peace to the world around you.