The Peace of God – October 08, 2000
Peace is a gift from God bestowed upon those who humbly follow Him. Like all gifts of the Spirit, peace cannot be forced, packaged, or purchased. Only as we keep God’s laws and lovingly serve Him do we receive the “peace . . . which passeth all understanding.”1
Perhaps nothing is more sought after. Yet, in vain, many look for peace from other sources. They plan relaxing retreats, indulge themselves with material pleasures, or enter new relationships. Ever searching and never able to come to an authentic feeling of peace, they don’t comprehend this gift that God gives to His children. When we live righteously, and sincerely submit to His will, we feel His love and know His peace.
A kindergarten boy had such peace of mind. One afternoon some schoolmates made fun of him as he rode the bus home, but he responded to their insults with the purity of a child: “If you knew me, you would like me.” And somehow they believed it. Their jeers were hushed, and he rode home in peace.
Peace is not dependent on people or circumstances. In fact, sometimes the most poignant feelings of peace are felt during the most troubled times—not because our situation becomes more favorable but because our dependence upon Divinity is so heartfelt and complete.
Facing the imminent death of her husband, the father of their children, a woman sought for comfort and peace. She couldn’t understand why her husband was dying. One summer night, she knelt alone in prayer, “utterly spent, wondering . . . how humble one had to be to receive an answer to one’s pleading. It was just at that moment that [she] felt an envelopment of the spirit of peace, a profound assurance that God is over all.
. . . [She] could finally say, ‘Thy will be done,’ and feel peace. . . . [She] felt an encircling love that has sustained [her] ever since.”2
Whether for a schoolboy or a seasoned adult, the peace of God engenders quiet confidence, comfort, and joy. When our trust rests in the Lord and our lives reflect His teachings, we are blessed with peace of mind and courage in the face of adversity.
What blessing could be greater, what peace more lasting than the peace of God! His promise is certain: “In me ye might have peace.”3
Program #3712
1. Philippians 4:7.
2. Stella Oaks, quoted in Marilyn Arnold, sel., Pure Love: Readings on Sixteen Enduring Virtues (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1997) 213-14; Matthew 6:10.
3. John 16:33.