What is Peace?

What does peace really mean? To know how to get it, we must understand what it is. We must understand what we are looking for. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, peace means:

1. "a state of mutual harmony between people or groups;"
2. "freedom from any strife or dissension;"
3. "freedom of the mind from annoyance, distraction, anxiety, an obsession, etc.; tranquillity; serenity;" and/or
4. "a state or condition conducive to, proceeding from, or characterized by tranquillity."

I think Biblical peace refers to all of these definitions, but especially the third, the absence of distraction and anxiety. It is the absence of anything that would distract us from God or that would interrupt our focus on Him. As it said in Isaiah 26, the peace of God comes when our mind is steadfast and fixed on God.

Here are some more verses on peace that will hopefully define it further and encourage you regarding God's promise of peace to those who will claim it.

Romans 8:6 - The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace.

Isaiah 32:17 - The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.

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.

Psalm 29:11 - The Lord gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.