The spiritual fruit of PEACE
PEACE - “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Gal. 5:22-23a NIV)
Jesus promises that if you abide (remain) in Him you will produce this kind of spiritual fruit as a direct result. (John 15:4)
Peace is the third of the nine fruits of the spirit listed in this passage. Each one is a promise!
Peace defined (Hebrew: Shalom) (Greek: Eirene)
Baker’s Bible dictionary has the best and most complete definition of God’s Peace that I have read. It is a bit of a long read, but worth it to understand the meaning and how it applies to you today.
In English, the word “peace” conjures up a passive picture, one showing an absence of civil disturbance or hostilities, or a personality free from internal and external strife. The biblical concept of peace is larger than that and rests heavily on the Hebrew root shalom, which means “to be complete” or “to be sound.” The verb conveys both a dynamic and a static meaning”to be complete or whole” or “to live well.” The noun had many nuances, but can be grouped into four categories: (1) as wholeness of life or body (i.e., health); (2) as right relationship or harmony between two parties or people, often established by a covenant (see “covenant of peace” in Num. 25:12-13; Isa. 54:10; Eze. 34:25-26) and, when related to Yahweh, the covenant was renewed or maintained with a “peace offering;” (3) as prosperity, success, or fulfillment (see Lev. 26:3-9); and (4) as victory over one’s enemies or absence of war, as was used in both greetings and farewells. It was meant to act as a blessing on the one to whom it was spoken: “May your life be filled with health, prosperity, and victory.” As an adjective, it expressed completeness and safety. In the New Testament, the Greek word “eirene” is the word most often translated by the word “peace.” Although there is some overlap in their meanings, the Hebrew word salom is broader in its usage, and, in fact, has greatly influenced the New Testament’s use of eirene [eijrhvnh].
God as the Source of Peace.
God alone is the source of peace, for he is “Yahweh Shalom” (see Judges 6:24). The Lord came to sinful humankind, historically first to the Jews and then to the Gentiles, desiring to enter into a relationship with them. He established with them a covenant of peace, which was sealed with his presence (see Nu. 6:24-26). Participants were given perfect peace (shalom) so long as they maintained a right relationship with the Lord (see Isa. 26:3; 2 Thes. 3:16).
Two more peace promises
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27 NIV)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:6-7 NIV)