The Apostle Paul wrote that verse above, in Ephesians 1:2
When Jesus prepared His disciples for His departure from this world, we read in John chapter 14, that He made a long speech to encourage his disciples. He promised The Holy Spirit to be their Helper. In some translations “Helper” is used as Councillor or Defender.
In verses 25 and 26 Jesus said – ”All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counsellor, The Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have said to you. 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.”
In Hebrew the word PEACE is “shalom”. Many Christians greet each other using this word. In Greek it’s “eiréne”. The meaning of this word also means integrity, health, and an unharmed state of affairs.
In the Finnish language peace is “rauha”, which means peace of mind – a state of peace.
Genuine, true peace, is having peace with, and in God – a harmony, a unity which is undisturbed. It’s a calm, peaceful, inner experience in everyday life.
Eph 2:14 states – “ For He Himself is our peace.” Jesus is the Prince of Peace. He said:- “But the Counsellor, The Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have said to you.”
What does this really mean in our lives, when He says, “The Holy Spirit will teach you all things.” So many times, we feel unsure and we are afraid of making mistakes, or we fear failing, or making the wrong decisions.
Jesus promised to teach us all things! That’s great and amazing! He is willing to teach us in any and all situations when we trust the Holy Spirit to give us discerning wisdom.
I remember, when I needed to decide very important matters concerning my future. In my own mind I had made some plans, but I was nervous and even anguished. I prayed much, but I still had my own plans in my mind. When I stopped thinking my own plans; I surrendered the whole matter to the Lord, and I received peace. I felt free.
I realized through the PEACE, what God wanted to speak to me. It was not a mistake in my life, when I gave the whole issue to be solved, into Jesus and the Holy Spirit’s care.
Many times, I have noticed, that inner PEACE shows the way. It gives strength to everyday living, in small or bigger things. It’s easy to lose this peace. When I have no peace; I turn on Jesus. I have to pray for the Holy Spirit to be my Helper, Counsellor and also my Defender .
During very difficult situations in my life, when I was in hospital care for cancer, or during the unexpected death of my husband; God gave my encouraging peace.
Jer 29:11 says – “For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you’, says the Lord, ‘PLANS FOR PEACE and well-being and not disaster, to give you a future and hope.”
What a privilege we have, to serve and love Jesus. We need to praise Him for that. He does not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid!
Phil. 4: 4-7 says – “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again. Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your request to God. And the PEACE of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Jesus Christ.”
Precious Jesus, thank You that You, as the Prince of Peace, can guard my heart and mind when I am troubled or afraid. Thank You that I can find peace in Your sweet presence and rest for my soul, no matter what I am going through. Father God, I love, worship and praise You. Thank You that You said in Isaiah 54:10 – “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.” Amen
Anne Hoikkala – Savolainen