“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, PEACE …” Galatians 5:22, where “peace” the last member of the first triad of these marvelous graces! (Three “sets” of threes! Do you remember the recent Lesson on the “order” of this list?)

And what a rich heritage this noun “peace” enjoys.

The word is “eirene” but it is the normal translation of the Hebrew noun “shalom!” The great (vast in scope) Old Testament word for “peace.”

Wow!

Peace indeed!

The Greek “eirene” is actually derived from a root verb (“eiro”) which means “to join together!”

As when two former enemies have now been “joined together” in some sort of pact, treaty, cease-fire! No longer at war, but in harmony!

As when a husband and wife no longer talk of divorce, but have been “joined together” in renewed (fervent) love for each other!

As when a sinner, long at war with God, has now (via the Blood of Jesus) been “joined together” with God, having met at the foot of the old rugged Cross! Reconciled! Now enjoying “atonement!” Truly … at peace with Almighty God!

Wow again!

But this peace the Holy Spirit births in our hearts is even more than the foregoing!

What I have described so far is “peace WITH God,” for example. In other words, you are no longer under God’s Wrath! No longer condemned to Hell!

But this “eirene” gift also brings the “peace OF God” to us!

Meaning that I can enjoy the very peace that God has in His Heart (!!!) … no matter how boisterous outward conditions may be!

“Peace in the mist of storm,” as the hymn writer noted!

Yes, God’s very Peace!

“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.” Jesus, in John 14:27.

Yes, again … the Peace of God!

Via The dear Holy Spirit of Peace!

Enjoy Him today!

— Dr. Mike Bagwell