Achieving World Peace - Really?

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry recently visited the revered Hiroshima atomic bombing memorial in Japan. The occasion for being there was a meeting with foreign ministers from the G7 nations. Kerry delivered a message of peace and hope for a nuclear-free world some seven decades after United States used the weapon for the first time in history against Japan thus bringing Word War II to a quicker end.

 At one point, the Secretary wrote in the museum's guestbook, "Everyone in the world should see and feel the power of this memorial. It is a stark, harsh, compelling reminder not only of our obligation to end the threat of nuclear weapons, but to rededicate all our effort to avoid war itself. This memorial compels us all to redouble our efforts to change the world, to find peace and build the future so yearned for by citizens everywhere."

Shortly before the ceremony, Kerry called the gathering "a moment that I hope will underscore to the world the importance of peace and the importance of strong allies working together to make the world safer and, ultimately, we hope to be able to rid the world of weapons of mass destruction."

If there is one thing that is in the minds of most in our world today it is the issue of peace. If you go to Merriam-Webster.com, you’ll find the following definitions there. First comes what they term the "simple definition" of peace. This includes a state in which there is no war or fighting, an agreement to end a war or a period of time when there is no war or fighting. That is followed by a "full definition" of peace. Under that category they list things like a state of tranquility or quiet, freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions, harmony in personal relations or a state or period of mutual concord between governments.

Peace, in any of these forms, is a treasured and sought after commodity. Just ask anyone who lacks it in any sphere and on any level. Countless millions suffer daily in unimaginable ways and perhaps can’t even fathom what it would be like to experience even the smallest slice of peace in their lives. And sadly, those who do have it for a time often take it for granted. But true and lasting peace, on the world scene, is simply not going to happen – at least for the present. The reason is simple. There is sin in the world, and thus there will always be pain, aggression and conflict as a result.

But most everyone in their right mind, and there are some who are not, covets peace. And gaining and maintaining peace should always be the goal, even if the desired outcome does not come as a result. For example, the Bible says in Romans 12:17-18, “Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” And verse 21 adds, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”  That is God’s preference and should be ours as well. But because of the reality of sin and evil, making and sustaining peace in a fallen and evil world does not often work. This is true from playground strife all the way to nation rising against nation! And true peace will never really work until Jesus Christ, the Price of Peace, returns and makes it fully work through His mighty will and power.

But what always works, even in a broken and chaotic world, is the personal peace of God. That comes as a part of God’s great redemption plan and package. Even the most casual study of the concept of  "peace" in the New Testament quickly confirms that. This tangible spiritual asset is always available for those who have trusted Christ as their personal Savior. Here are just a few verses of confirmation for starters:

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."  (John 16:33)

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”  (Romans 15:13)

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23)

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."  (John 14:26-28)

Yes, peace in general is a precious, but often fragile and illusive, thing in a harsh world. But personal inner peace is a promised asset and is always there for every follower of Jesus Christ. That is not just wishful thinking or some hit-or-miss proposition. God's unique peace is an unwavering  guarantee  as the above verses, and others like them, assure. And to not take full advantage of this most priceless of all blessings in this uncertain life is not only sad, but simply hard to fathom on any level.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4: 6-7)

Bill Breckenridge