Peace is something everyone longs for, but few seem to find. In the world we live in, full of struggles, uncertainties, and trials, many wonder if true peace is even possible. Yet, the Word of God gives us the answer to this deep desire. Romans 5:1-2 tells us, "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God" (NASB). These verses speak of a peace that transcends all understanding—a peace that is rooted in our relationship with God, established through faith in Jesus Christ. Today, I want to encourage you by sharing four powerful ways we can nurture this peace on our journey with God.
1. The Foundation of Peace: Justification by Faith
The first step in nurturing peace is understanding where it begins: with our justification by faith. Romans 5:1 reminds us that it is through our faith in Jesus Christ that we are justified, made right with God. This justification is not something we earn through works or by being perfect; it is a gift of grace. It is the foundation upon which our peace is built.
Application
As believers, we can rest in the assurance that our relationship with God is secure. We are no longer at odds with Him but have been brought into His family through faith. To nurture peace, remind yourself regularly of this foundational truth. When doubts arise, stand firm in the knowledge that you have been justified by faith, and no one can take that peace away from you.
2. Peace Through Access to Grace
In verse 2, Paul speaks of another incredible truth: "We have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand." This access to grace is not a one-time event but an ongoing, daily experience. Grace is God's unmerited favor, and it is through grace that we are empowered to live out our faith and experience His peace.
Application
To nurture peace, make it a habit to lean on God’s grace every day. When challenges come, remember that God’s grace is sufficient for you (2 Corinthians 12:9). You don’t have to rely on your own strength or ability to maintain peace—grace is the power that sustains you. Start your day by asking God to fill you with His grace and help you walk in peace, no matter what comes your way.
3. Exulting in Hope of the Glory of God
Paul goes on to say that because of this justification and access to grace, we "exult in hope of the glory of God." This hope is not wishful thinking; it is a confident expectation of what God will do. Our peace is nurtured when we set our minds on the hope we have in Christ—hope that transcends our present circumstances and looks forward to the day when we will be fully united with Him in glory.
Application
When life gets tough, lift your eyes to the bigger picture. Nurture peace by focusing on the eternal hope we have in Jesus. This world is not our home, and our troubles are temporary compared to the joy that awaits us. Take time to meditate on Scriptures that remind you of this hope, like Romans 8:18, which says, "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us."
4. Peace Through Relationship with Jesus
Ultimately, peace is not just a feeling; it is found in a Person—Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1-2 makes it clear that our peace with God comes "through our Lord Jesus Christ." Jesus is the Prince of Peace, and it is through a personal, intimate relationship with Him that we experience lasting peace. Nurturing peace means spending time in His presence, learning from Him, and allowing Him to guide our hearts.
Application
Make your relationship with Jesus the priority in your life. Spend time in prayer, worship, and Bible study, not out of obligation but out of a desire to know Him more. The more you abide in Him, the more His peace will flow through you. Remember His words in John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." Hold onto the peace that only He can provide.
As we walk out the peace promised to us in Romans 5:1-2, we can find comfort in knowing that this peace is not based on our circumstances but on the unshakable truth of God's Word. We are justified by faith, have access to God’s grace, and can exult in the hope of His glory. Above all, we have peace through a relationship with Jesus Christ, who holds us securely in His hands. Let us nurture this peace daily, trusting that God will guard our hearts and minds as we stand firm in His promises.