FRIDAY FIVE: UNSHAKEABLE PEACE IN CHRIST

Romans 5:1

[1] Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (ESV)

What does peace look like? How does it feel? On a personal level, we often think of peace as a quiet evening by a fireplace, a stroll along the beach, or the settling of our restless mind/soul. In considering peace more broadly we think of the cessation of war, a treaty between rival nations, or the end of genocide between warring tribal nations. However, we may think of peace, but it does not compare to what the apostle Paul presents in these verses.

Paul is speaking about the peace that exists between humanity and our Creator. In the earlier chapters of Romans, he emphasizes the conflict between God and mankind, highlighting God's sovereignty over all things and the reality that everyone stands guilty before a holy God. To grasp our condition apart from Christ, consider Romans 2:8–9: "But for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury." The holiness of God requires justice for sin and unrighteousness. Our sinful nature separates us from God and leaves us vulnerable to experiencing his wrath.

This is the incredible price that Jesus paid for our sins on the cross to bring about peace between man and God. This peace is so much more than a stroll along the beach. This peace is the promise to never again be on the end of God’s wrath. Faith in Christ brings about the greatest peace treaty the world has ever seen. Our faith in Christ grants us access to God as a son and with sonship comes a wealth of blessings with this peace.

Most importantly, we no longer live in fear of God's judgment but can fully embrace the life He has prepared for His children. His peace reassures us during life’s greatest trials, reminding us that our ultimate reward is not in this world but in the life to come. Through the death and resurrection of His Son, God has promised us eternal life with Him—and it is glorious.

As followers of Christ, you have eternal peace—one that cannot be shaken or disrupted by life's challenges. Though we may experience stress or uncertainty, God's peace remains steadfast. When we fully embrace the truth that Christ’s death has reconciled us to God, it changes our perspective. We understand that no matter the trials we face, our lives are eternally secure in Him. There is no doubt that when we stand before Him, we will experience peace rather than fear or shame, for our righteousness is not based on our works but His.

Scripture references for this week’s Blog

Colossians 1:20

[20] and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. (ESV)

John 16:33

[33] I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (ESV)