ENJOYING INNER PEACE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: John 14:27
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
Supporting Texts: Isaiah 26:3, Philippians 4:6-7, Colossians 3:15, Romans 5:1, Psalm 119:165
INTRODUCTION:
In today’s world, many are overwhelmed by fear, anxiety, and inner turmoil. People chase after external sources of peace—money, relationships, achievements—yet still feel restless and unsettled within. Jesus, however, speaks of a different kind of peace—a peace not as the world gives, but a divine calmness that is unaffected by outward circumstances.
This inner peace is not the absence of challenges but the presence of God. It is a fruit of the Holy Spirit that stabilises the heart in seasons of uncertainty. When everything around you shakes, the peace of God becomes an anchor that holds you firm. This peace is a supernatural tranquility that guards your heart and mind, enabling you to walk confidently through the storms of life.
To enjoy this peace, the believer must align their heart with the Lord, saturate their mind with His Word, and live in obedience to His will. Peace is not something we manufacture; it is something we receive by grace and protect by trust. Let us now explore the paths to enjoying this priceless gift of inner peace.
1. INNER PEACE COMES FROM KNOWING CHRIST
True and lasting peace is impossible outside of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.
a) Peace Is a Fruit of the Spirit
When the Holy Spirit dwells within us, He produces the fruit of peace that calms our hearts despite external chaos (Galatians 5:22). This peace is not emotional but spiritual, flowing from the inner witness of God’s presence.
b) Jesus Is the Source of Everlasting Peace
The peace Christ gives is eternal and reliable. Unlike the fragile peace the world offers, His peace remains through storms and trials (John 14:27). It is the assurance that He is in control.
c) No Christ, No Peace — Know Christ, Know Peace
Without Jesus, the soul remains in conflict and unrest. But to know Him is to enter into a realm of divine calmness and wholeness (Ephesians 2:14).
d) Peace Comes Through Justification by Faith
Being justified by faith in Christ brings peace with God—a reconciliation that ends the war between our sinful nature and God’s holiness (Romans 5:1).
Biblical Example – The woman with the issue of blood found peace the moment she touched Jesus' garment and heard His assuring words: “Daughter, your faith has made you whole; go in peace” (Mark 5:34).
2. THE MIND IS THE BATTLEFIELD FOR PEACE
The state of our mind determines whether we will enjoy or forfeit the peace God offers.
a) A Mind Stayed on God Knows Peace
When our thoughts are fixed on God, we are shielded from fear and anxiety. God's perfect peace is a reward for trust and spiritual focus (Isaiah 26:3).
b) Worry Is a Thief of Peace
Anxiety corrodes peace like acid. God commands us to be anxious for nothing, but in everything to pray, give thanks, and let our requests be made known to Him (Philippians 4:6).
c) We Must Guard Our Hearts and Minds
Peace must be protected like a treasure. Through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and refusing toxic thoughts, we allow God's peace to rule within (Philippians 4:7).
d) The Word of God Anchors the Mind
Peace is nurtured in the heart that loves and meditates on God’s Word. Those who delight in His commandments are not easily offended or shaken (Psalm 119:165).
Biblical Example – David, despite the loss at Ziklag, encouraged himself in the Lord and refused to let fear overwhelm him (1 Samuel 30:6).
3. FORGIVENESS AND OBEDIENCE PRESERVE PEACE
Unforgiveness and disobedience create spiritual disturbances that disrupt our inner peace.
a) Unresolved Offences Trouble the Soul
When we harbour bitterness or resentment, our spirit becomes restless. Peace cannot dwell in a heart consumed by unforgiveness (Hebrews 12:14-15).
b) Obedience to God Brings Peace
Peace flows in the path of obedience. When we walk according to God’s commands, He causes our peace to flow like a river (Isaiah 48:18).
c) Peace Comes with a Clear Conscience
A guilt-free conscience allows us to sleep peacefully and face life confidently. Sin may offer temporary pleasure but steals long-lasting peace (Isaiah 32:17).
d) The Holy Spirit Convicts When Peace Is Missing
If we step out of alignment with God, His Spirit gently alerts us by removing our inner peace, urging us to return (Colossians 3:15).
Biblical Example – Joseph forgave his brothers despite their betrayal. He chose peace over revenge, and God exalted him (Genesis 50:19-21).
4. PEACE IS A CHOICE, NOT A FEELING
We must be intentional in choosing peace each day, regardless of circumstances.
a) Reject Every Troubling Thought
Jesus instructs us not to let our hearts be troubled. Peace begins with a decision to reject fear and stand on God's promises (John 14:1).
b) Choose Peace Daily in Your Responses
Our reactions can either escalate conflict or maintain peace. A gentle answer calms tensions and keeps the atmosphere godly (Proverbs 15:1).
c) Surround Yourself with Peaceful Influences
Your environment matters. Choose companions and content that build faith and foster inner peace (Romans 12:18).
d) Pursue Peace as a Lifestyle
Peace is something we must chase intentionally. Make every effort to live at peace with others and with God (Hebrews 12:14).
Biblical Example – Abigail, through wisdom and humility, preserved peace between David and her household (1 Samuel 25:18–35).
5. PEACE IS A WEAPON IN SPIRITUAL WARFARE
Your ability to remain calm in adversity is a powerful strategy against the enemy.
a) Satan Targets Your Peace to Weaken Your Faith
When peace is lost, confusion sets in. Peace is part of our spiritual armour, like shoes that enable us to stand firmly (Ephesians 6:15).
b) Peace Guards Your Emotions in the Battle
In turbulent times, peace protects our hearts from being overwhelmed. It keeps us composed, focused, and spiritually alert (2 Timothy 1:7).
c) Peace Declares Trust in God’s Sovereignty
Your calmness proclaims your confidence in God’s ability to bring victory out of any chaos (Psalm 37:7).
d) Peace Silences the Storm
Jesus modelled spiritual authority by speaking peace to the storm. You can speak the same peace over your life and situations (Mark 4:39).
Biblical Example – Jesus slept during a fierce storm, showing us that peace is possible even when everything around is shaking (Mark 4:38-39).
CONCLUSION:
Peace is not a luxury—it is the believer’s inheritance. Jesus left us His peace not just for comfort, but as a lifestyle. This peace gives us emotional, mental, and spiritual rest even in the midst of life’s battles. To enjoy it, we must know Christ, guard our thoughts, walk in obedience, and choose peace daily.
As we grow in intimacy with God and allow the Holy Spirit to rule our hearts, His peace will sustain us, guide us, and strengthen us for every season. No matter what comes our way, we can remain unshaken because our peace is rooted in an unchanging God.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord Jesus, flood my heart with Your supernatural peace.
2. I silence every voice of anxiety, fear, and confusion in my life.
3. Father, help me fix my mind on You and trust You always.
4. I release every offence and walk in forgiveness and freedom.
5. Let Your Word dwell richly in me to stabilise my thoughts.
6. Holy Spirit, be my guide and inner witness of peace.
7. I reject every spirit of fear and receive the Spirit of peace.
8. Lord, help me to live in peace with others and pursue unity.
9. I receive grace to remain calm in every storm of life.
10. Let Your peace rule in my heart and home every day.
