How Can I Have Peace With God?

TL;DR

Peace with God is obtained through faith in Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice.
This peace is a gift from God, not earned by our works, but received by grace.
A life of ongoing faith, repentance, and trust in God’s promises fosters lasting peace.
Regular prayer and immersion in Scripture are vital for maintaining peace with God.
Understanding God’s sovereign control and love helps in overcoming anxiety and unrest.

Obtaining Peace Through Faith in Christ

The fundamental step to having peace with God is through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1 states, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” This peace is not something we can achieve through our own efforts or good works; it is a gift that comes from being justified – declared righteous in God’s sight – through faith in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.

Ephesians 2:14 declares, “For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility.” This indicates that Christ not only brings peace but is our peace. His death reconciled us to God, breaking down the barriers of sin and hostility. Believing in Christ’s complete and sufficient work on the cross is the foundation of peace with God.

The Role of Grace and Faith

Peace with God is a result of grace, as emphasized in Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” We cannot earn peace with God; it is a gift that comes from trusting in His grace and mercy. This understanding frees us from trying to earn God’s favor and allows us to rest in His completed work.

Faith in God’s promises also plays a critical role in experiencing peace. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Faith involves trusting in God’s character and His promises, even when circumstances are challenging. It is through faith that we experience the peace that surpasses understanding, as described in Philippians 4:7.

Ongoing Faith, Repentance, and Trust

Maintaining peace with God involves a life of ongoing faith, repentance, and trust. James 2:26 reminds us that faith without works is dead. This does not mean that works earn us peace, but rather that genuine faith manifests in a life that seeks to honor God. Regular repentance and turning away from sin are also crucial, as sin can disrupt our fellowship with God.

Trusting in God’s sovereignty and love is essential for peace. Romans 8:28 assures us that God works all things for the good of those who love Him. This trust helps us navigate life’s challenges without losing our peace. It involves surrendering our worries and anxieties to God, as 1 Peter 5:7 encourages us to cast all our anxieties on Him, for He cares for us.

Prayer and Scripture

Prayer and regular immersion in Scripture are vital practices for sustaining peace with God. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let our requests be made known to God. Prayer is a means of communing with God, expressing our dependence on Him, and receiving His peace.

Engaging with Scripture also anchors our peace. Psalm 119:165 states, “Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble.” God’s Word guides, corrects, and comforts us, providing the wisdom and reassurance we need to maintain peace in our relationship with God.

Conclusion

Peace with God is a gracious gift obtained through faith in Jesus Christ. It is sustained by a life of faith, repentance, and trust, undergirded by regular prayer and engagement with Scripture. Understanding and resting in God’s sovereignty and love are key to overcoming anxiety and maintaining peace.

“Trusting God: Even When Life Hurts” by Jerry Bridges – Bridges delves into the sovereignty of God and how trusting in His plan brings peace amidst life’s trials.