Our vision is the unified spiritual Bride of Christ, living and representing the gospel of God’s plan of salvation for humanity. Our mission is to nurture the church family as a spiritual organism, feeding the flock and sharing the gospel.
In this message we will consider peace. In particular I want to focus on three types or areas of peace. First let’s understand a couple of definitions of peace. One definition that is commonly quoted is that peace is “the absence of war”. Although this is true sometimes this type of peace is maintained because one side has superior power. And thus would win in a physical conflict. Another definition of peace is “freedom from disturbance, tranquility”. Tranquility means a calm state of being. One free from commotion or disturbing emotions like anger, agitation, anxiety, or even fear. The first area of peace to consider would be to have peace with God. This spiritual peace is looking outward. Building our relationship with him by repenting of our sins, obeying His commandments, and being in harmony with Him. When we have a right relationship with God we can move forward with the second type of peace. Inner peace with self. This is a conscious state of psychological calmness. Not letting emotions like anxiety, agitation, anger, or fear affect us. As a matter of fact not letting any external condition affect us. Being confident in our relation with God enhances and strengthens our confidence in ourselves. We can look past and not dwell on the momentary things. The third area we should have peace is with others. This can be the most difficult of the three. Peace with others can be broken into a couple different categories. Peace with like minded individuals. Those with whom we have a lot in common. Especially if we are of the same faith. But we also need to have peace with acquaintances. We may meet people who are having a tough time or a bad day. And when we are at peace with God and are at peace within ourselves, we can affect that circumstance with peace. Peace toward them. Christ told us “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the sons of God.”