Did the Almighty Actually Promise Us Peace on Earth?

Did God actually promise us peace on earth—as in no wars, and a comfortable life?

This post is part of the Five-Minute Friday quick write hosted by Kate Moutang. Join us each Thursday night on Twitter (#FMFParty) for fun and fellowship, then grab a pen and start writing when the prompt goes live!

Wars and Rumors of Wars

“Russia invaded Ukraine,” I stated as I sat down to eat my breakfast.

“I know,” Pedro replied.

Neither one of us really knew how to react. With prayer, of course, and trepidation. A lot of trepidation.

I confess I enjoy our comfortable life. The last time war had caused me angst happened over thirty years ago. We watched in disbelief as the U.S. and other coalition units invaded Kuwait. I spent countless hours watching the news and worrying. Peace on earth seemed unattainable.

I finally decided to shut off the television and quit stressing over something I couldn’t change. The news would never bring me peace. Instead, I turned to my Bible and sought a different kind of comfort.

Countless times since then, I’ve fretted over the lack of peace on earth, much less peace in my country, peace at work, or peace in my relationships.

Over thirty years later, I’ve learned a few things about peace on earth. Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased (NLT).” The angels use the phrase ‘peace on earth’ to announce the arrival of the Savior. Jesus equals peace.

Colossians 1:20 helps explain the work of Peace, “and through him (Peace) God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross (NLT).” Jesus came to reconcile the peace of heaven with the sin on earth.

Peace on Earth

While we sing songs at Christmas time about peace on earth, the phrase only appears in Luke 2:14. God didn’t promise us peace on earth. He promised us Peace on this earth. The peace he promises comes to the individual—not the world (earth).

Jesus clearly states in John 16:33 we will have troubles—lots of them. But he also encourages us with the promise, “But take heart, because I have overcome the world (earth).” Peace, the person, came to us to bring us peace as individuals.

What should we do when Russia invades Ukraine? Do we let our minds run amok with scenes of a nuclear holocaust? I remember two things. God didn’t promise peace, he promised Peace. If we put our trust in Peace, we’ll remember he has overcome the world. I also remember Mark 13:7 “And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately.”

Jesus’ instructions about what to do when wars loom get repeated in three of the four gospels. Don’t panic when you hear about wars. My job isn’t to panic and wring my hands. Instead, I need to pray for world leaders, citizens, journalists, and soldiers. And I need to make sure I am ready and at peace with the Prince of Peace.