Harvesting the Fruit of Peace

 “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

If you follow any news source, you can see that many believe that peace has lost its place in this world. In fact, simple things that make life worth living seem to be hindered or hopelessly missing. We’re led to think that everyone is against each other, the economy is failing, everyone is or will be sick and our lives and livelihoods are threatened. I have to admit, at times, peace does appear lost. However, that is a large distortion of the truth. God’s peace is still available for harvest today.

The shelves aren’t empty, stock isn’t running low and the prices haven’t gone up on God’s peace. Life may be bad for many people in many places, but not everywhere or for everyone. Look around. Many people experience blessings every day. Some are graduating from high school and college, starting new jobs or businesses, getting married, celebrating new babies, celebrating birthdays and holidays, enjoying vacations or staycations. Flowers are still blooming. The world may seem ruthless, restless, and messy, but peace is still present.

“Peace” is a beautiful sounding word—tranquil and refreshing. But, what does it actually mean?

Peace – Greek 1515. eirene
probably from a primary verb eiro (to join); peace (literally or figuratively); by implication, prosperity:–one, peace, quietness, rest, + set at one again.

I like the thought of being “set at one again.” When we’re at one, unity restores peace that division destroys.

We can’t be living in the Spirit, when our heads, hearts and homes aren’t seeing this fruit. Peace requires two things:

• Obedience to God
• Open hearts

Securing Peace in Our Heads

When my peace is disturbed, my head runs wild with “what ifs,” “why nots,” and how to handle the conflict, decision, or crisis. I get restless, eat wrong, sleep less, and behave poorly in this carnal state of mind.

However, when I turn my dilemma over to God and truly trust Him to guide me, my mind stops pondering and peace returns.

Securing Peace in Our Hearts

God will calm our hearts, if we let Him. We don’t have to live distressed.

“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy
and peace in believing
that ye may abound in hope,
through the power of the Holy Ghost.”
Romans 15:13

Securing Peace in Your Home

When our heads and hearts are at rest, it creates a place for peace to reside in our homes. Peace makes living more enjoyable and easier.

“Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace,
and things wherewith one may edify another.”
Romans 14:19

To harvest peace, we have to open ourselves up to reaping God’s fruit in God’s way.

Finally, brethren, farewell.
Be perfect, be of good comfort,
be of one mind, live in peace;
and the God of love and peace shall be with you.”
2 Corinthians 13:11

Bring It Home

Are you harvesting peace in this season?

Praying for you as we grow together,

Smiles, BRC