"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." - Galatians 5:22-23
Introduction
When someone hears "Fruit of the Spirit", they normally think of the first two that we have gone over already: Love or Joy. But one of the most challenging fruits to cultivate is Peace. Having peace in our hearts, even through the bad stuff, can help us trust in God's provisions. This can strengthen our faith and deepen our relationship with Him. We experience joy and contentment that isn't because of outside circumstances, but because of fulfillment in our lives. In this article, we will explore three ways that we can trust in God's Fruit of the Spirit of patience to bring us peace beyond understanding.
The Peace of God that Surpasses Understanding
"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7 (KJV)
One of the most beautiful aspects of God's peace is that it surpasses our understanding. This means that we can experience a sense of peace right in the middle of trials and challenges that is not dependent on our circumstances. It is a peace that comes from God and can only be fully understood through a relationship with Him.
The Bible tells us that this Peace is a fruit of the Spirit and can be cultivated through prayer and meditation on Scripture. Pray for God’s wisdom and guidance over you. He will give you the strength and peace when facing difficult situations. This frees us from anxiety and worry by giving us a sense of calm in God’s goodness.
Real-life Application: It might sound corny, but practice an attitude of gratitude. Focus on your blessings no matter how small they could be. Make it a daily practice and you will see a sense of peace and contentment wash over you.
Peace Through Trusting God's Plan for You
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." - Isaiah 55:8-9 (KJV)
The above verse is a reminder that God’s ways and thoughts are far above our own. We cannot fully understand God’s plans or purposes, but we can have the peace in knowing that they are good and perfect. Focusing on the blessings that God has already given, creates a mindset of trust and contentment. This leads to Peace a fruit of the Spirit. This can be comforting during life's struggles while trying to understand why things are happening.
Real-life Application: Look for signs of God's provision in our lives. This could be something that God has physically given you or an action that led to God’s blessings. Make a habit of looking for the ways in which God is at work interacting in your life. Even if it's not on your timeline. You will gain a sense of peace and confidence knowing that He is in control.
Holding On vs. Letting Go
“For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.” – Romans 8:6 (KJV)
Peace is a mindset, and the fruit of the Spirit that is Peace will physically show itself. Even to others who would be frustrated or discouraged when things don’t go as planned. It is how you look at things. When you know that God has your outcome to be the best for you, it isn’t hard to choose the correct mindset. The above verse contrasts a mindset that is focused on worldly concerns (carnal) with a mindset that is focused on spiritual things. Focus on the correct things and a sense of life and peace wash over you.
Real-life Application: Forgiveness is the bittersweet moment concerning Peace as a Fruit of the Spirit. Jesus spoke of forgiveness (Matthew 6:12) when teaching others how to pray. When we choose to forgive others, which can be difficult, we experience a deep sense of release from anger and bitterness and gives us the opportunity to let go of all our mental stress from remembering negative things.
Conclusion
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." - John 14:27 (KJV)
We have learned here that the Peace of God is not something that we could ever understand but we do gain it when we trust in Him and His plan for us. We also have learned that letting go of all the junk we have emotionally tied to others can be released by forgiving. The verse above is Jesus’ promise that he will give peace. This peace is different that worldly peace which is temporary and dependent on outside circumstances. Jesus’ peace is eternal and this verse encourages us to trust in Jesus knowing that he has given us His peace.
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them in the comment section below. Additionally, if you found this article to be helpful, please share it with others who may also benefit from it.
Andrew R. Davis, a Christian blogger, speaker, and ministry leader, passionately shares the Word of God, guiding others in understanding the Bible and discovering their unique role in God's plan. Through HolyBanter.com, his podcast, and creative pursuits, he empowers Christians to incorporate spiritual gifts into everyday life, igniting their purposeful journey.
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