Shalom

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. (John 14:27, ESV)

Oftentimes we can focus on and desire one aspect of peace: that much needed inner peace that helps us be and remain calm under any circumstance. But inner peace is only one aspect or component of peace. The Hebrew definition of peace according to Strong’s Complete Concordance of the Bible is “Completeness, soundness, welfare, and peace.” And represents completeness in number and safety and soundness in your physical body.

Shalom also covers relationships with God and with people. When Jesus said “my peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you” he is referring to complete peace, not just one aspect of it. Sure, we can experience peace outside of Christ; the world has many methods for achieving peace, but it will be fleeting, temporary, and only partial. If we want complete peace, that peace that passes all human comprehension, that peace that converts emotions, thoughts, and relationships, that peace that becomes the foundation from which we make our decisions and transforms life and behavior, then we must get it from Christ because he alone is Peace. Let’s Pray,

Dear God, this world around us shows us that peace is absent and needed. May we not only become instruments of peace but enjoy that complete peace that only comes from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen

Questions for Soul-Tending:

Is you life, emotions, thinking, and relationships reflecting shalom or, do you have only one aspect of peace?

What does today’s focus make you think or desire?

How will you incorporate today’s focus into your plan of soul-care?