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
In the New Testament the primary Greek word for “peace” is “eirene” and it refers to rest and tranquility. Romans 5:1 tells us that is it through Jesus work of justification that we can have peace with God. This peace shall keep your hearts and minds secure through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7)
As Christians we are to allow the peace of God to rule in our hearts. Colossians 3:15 “Let the peace of Christ [the inner calm of one who walks daily with Him] be the controlling factor in your hearts [deciding and settling questions that arise]. To this peace indeed you were called as members in one body [of believers]. And be thankful [to God always].” The word “let” is an action word and means to allow or to forbid. It is something you do. This means we have the choice either to trust God’s promises letting his peace rule or to rely on ourselves and reject the peace He has given us.
Until Jesus comes and establishes lasting peace this world in which we live will continue to have wars and unrest. As long as we are living we are going to encounter tribulation and distress and suffering along the way. But as long as we trust the one who is peace and has given that peace to us we don’t have to allow our heart to be troubled or afraid. Jesus gave this promise to His disciples and to us also – “John 16:33 I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart I have overcome the world.”