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The God of Peace

Philippians 4:8-9, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”

The phrase “God of peace” occurs in the New Testament 5 times by itself; six if you count the one in the previous lesson. Peace means so much more than quietness and security, it also encompasses wholeness with everything operating in perfect harmony; perfect balance that can’t be thrown off-center or out of focus. God dispenses peace every time we meet Him because He IS peace. The unity aspect of peace is expressed in Ephesians 4:3, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Romans 16:17-20 describes the God of peace as a mighty warrior, crushing Satan, and dispelling divisions, “I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles...such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites... I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.”

We might have trouble understanding the God of “peace” crushing Satan. But remembering that peace includes wholeness, and recognizing that Satan is the devourer and divider – God in His unselfish love chooses for the highest good, and crushing Satan is the perfect, peaceful solution.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24, the God of peace separates His people for Himself in purity and wholeness, “Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely...He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.”

In Hebrews 13:20-21, the God of peace raised Jesus from the dead and equips His saints, “Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus...equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever.”

Romans 15:30-33 expresses peace as a loving benediction of wholeness and blessing, “I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf...so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company. May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.”

Reflection: Isn’t the God of peace amazing? He floods our lives with wisdom, wholeness, security, unity, balance, equipping; and those are just a few of the aspects of His peace.