THE BASIS OF PEACE

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, (Romans 5:1 NKJV)

and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.  (Colossians 1:20 NKJV)

The basis of redemption and peace was laid on Calvary, when our Lord died for the sins of the world. In Leviticus 17:11, we learn that "the life, or soul, of the flesh is in the blood' (R.V. marginal); from which we infer that the flowing of the blood of Christ was the pouring of His soul as a sacrifice for sin.

It may be asked: Granted that the blood of Christ represents His soul which was poured out for sinful men, how did this marvelous act of self sacrifice constitute a basis for peace? The full answer to that question is impossible in our present limited knowledge. It is one of the secret things which belong to the Lord our God, hidden from us now, to be revealed when we are full grown.

But never suppose that the shedding of Christ's blood was necessary to make God love us, to appease His wrath or wring from His unwilling hand an edict of redemption. "God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself.'" The Father does not love us because Jesus died, but He went to the Cross because of God's love for those who choose to be joint heirs with His Son.

But there is one condition to be fulfilled. The access into peace is open only to those who believe. We are justified by faith; we have peace through believing. The Apostle says that through whom we have now received the reconciliation (Romans 5:11 NKJV). The redemption is accomplished; we have but to receive it. The reconciliation of peace is made; it is only for us to take it. "For as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness, unto eternal life, by Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 5:21)  As we receive eternal life, and the Holy Spirit with open and thankful hearts, relying on the divine assurance by faith, we enter into the great inheritance of peace, and the gifts of God in grace and nature become our own.

PRAYER

Most Merciful Lord, grant to me, above all things that can be desired, to rest in You and in You to have my heart at peace. You are the true peace of the heart. In this very peace that is in You, the one eternal God, I will sleep and rest. I pray it in Jesus’ name, AMEN.

 

God's Daily Promise

Promise #175:

I will provide justice for everyone who is mistreated.

Psalm 103:6 (WEB)
Yahweh executes righteous acts, 
and justice for all who are oppressed.