Peace as a Fruit of the Spirit

Peace — the Greek 'eirene' — is the third fruit of the Holy Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22. It is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of the divine shalom: that integral well-being and wholeness God grants to his children. Second Thessalonians 3:16 speaks of the 'Lord of peace' who gives peace 'always by all means.' John 14:27 distinguishes the peace of Christ from that of the world: 'My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you' — it is deeper, more lasting, independent of circumstances. Romans 8:6 contrasts the two dispositions: 'to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.' The peace of the Spirit is thus the sign of a heart and mind centered on God rather than on the troubles of the world. Philippians 4:7 describes it beautifully: 'the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.' This peace cannot be manufactured by human effort nor explained by reason; it is a gift of the Spirit to those who trust in God. It is the peace Jesus knew even in the storm, asleep in the stern of the boat (Mark 4:38). It is received, according to Philippians 4:6, when we commit our cares to God in prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving, casting our anxieties upon him who cares for us.