Peace is a central theme in the Bible. God desires peace and harmony among all people. Here are some key Bible verses about peace:
Old Testament Verses About Peace
“Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.” (Psalm 34:14)
“I will listen to what God the Lord says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants—but let them not turn to folly.” (Psalm 85:8)
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” (Psalm 34:14)
“For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.” (Isaiah 54:10)
“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)
“I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security.” (Jeremiah 33:6)
New Testament Verses About Peace
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)
“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14)
“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.” (2 Corinthians 13:11)
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:17-18)
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)
“A harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace.” (James 3:18)
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)
Principles from Bible Verses on Peace
These verses reveal key principles about peace in the Bible:
- God desires peace, not conflict or hostility, among people.
- As followers of Christ, we are called to actively pursue peace through our words and actions.
- True peace comes from trusting in God and keeping our minds stayed on Him.
- Peacemakers reflect the character of God and are considered His children.
- The peace of God transcends human understanding and guards our hearts when we trust in Christ.
- Living at peace with others should be a priority whenever possible.
- Jesus came to give us His peace, which is unlike worldly peace that depends on circumstances.
- We glorify God by living at peace among ourselves and others.
How to Find Peace According to the Bible
The Bible gives practical guidance on how to find true, lasting peace:
- Trust in God’s sovereignty. When we trust that God is in control, even in chaotic times, we can experience “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding” (Philippians 4:7). Surrendering control to Him brings peace.
- Dwell on good things. “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8). Dwelling on the goodness of God and His Word fills our minds with peace.
- Pray with thanksgiving. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). Praying with gratitude helps ease anxiety.
- Extend grace to others. Being quick to forgive others provides peace in relationships. “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy” (Hebrews 12:14).
- Obey God’s commands. “Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble” (Psalm 119:165). Obeying God’s Word leads to blessing and peace.
Bible Stories That Demonstrate Peace
Certain Bible stories stand out as illustrations of pursuing peace:
Jacob and Esau’s Reconciliation
After deceiving his brother out of his birthright and blessing, Jacob feared Esau’s retaliation. But they made peace when Jacob humbled himself and Esau forgave him (Genesis 33).
Isaac Settles Dispute with Abimelek
Though wronged by Abimelek taking his wife, Isaac did not retaliate but made a covenant of peace with the king and his men (Genesis 26:26-33).
David Spares Saul
Despite Saul pursuing him unjustly, David spared his life on two occasions. He sought peace rather than vengeance against the king (1 Samuel 24, 26).
Jesus Calms the Storm
When a violent storm came up, Jesus spoke “Peace, be still!” and the wind and waves obeyed him (Mark 4:35-41). He has power to speak peace into troubled times.
Jesus Forgives and Heals
Jesus extended mercy and peace through forgiving sins, healing the sick, and restoring the outcast. He brought God’s shalom.
Blessings of Pursuing Peace
The Bible connects many blessings to pursuing peace:
- Children of God (Matthew 5:9)
- Joy (Proverbs 12:20)
- Wisdom (James 3:17)
- Right relationships (Romans 12:18)
- Protection of mind/heart (Philippians 4:7)
- Well-being (Psalm 37:11)
- Long life (Proverbs 3:1-2)
- The presence of God (2 Corinthians 13:11)
Some of the benefits of peace listed in Scripture include improved relationships, spiritual growth, inner calm, protection from anxiety and worry, joy, satisfaction, and health. When we prioritize peacemaking we will reap blessings.
Hindrances to Peace
The Bible warns against attitudes and actions that disrupt peace:
- Pride (Proverbs 13:10)
- Unforgiveness (Mark 11:25)
- Greed (Proverbs 15:27)
- Jealousy/selfish ambition (James 3:16)
- Anger (Proverbs 15:18)
- Fear (Isaiah 7:4)
- Unhealthy conflict (1 Corinthians 1:11)
- Worldly anxieties (Philippians 4:6)
To maintain peace, we must surrender pride, humbly forgive others, avoid selfishness and jealousy, control anger, trust God to conquer fear, resolve disagreements, and give anxieties to the Lord.
Peace in Difficult Circumstances
The Bible reminds us God can give us peace even in troubled times:
- Illness – “When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul” (Psalm 94:19).
- Grief and loss – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).
- Injustice – “Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice” (Proverbs 24:17).
- Persecution – “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me” (Matthew 5:11).
- Economic turmoil – “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
During trials, we can ask God for peace and trust He hears our prayers. Clinging to His promises sustains us through suffering.
Peace with God Through Christ
The ultimate peace is available through Jesus’ death and resurrection which reconciled us to God:
- “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).
- “For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross” (Colossians 1:19-20).
Because of Christ’s sacrifice, we can have restored relationship with God, the giver of peace. When we trust in Jesus, we receive God’s peace in our hearts.
God Promises Eternal Peace in Heaven
The book of Revelation provides a beautiful picture of the peace we can look forward to in eternity with God:
- “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:4).
- “There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever” (Revelation 22:5).
The trials and chaos of this present world are temporary. God promises perfect, endless peace and rest for His people when Christ returns. This certain hope can give us peace as we wait.
Finding Peace by Applying Biblical Principles
In a world filled with tribulation, we can still experience deep peace by applying these biblical principles:
- Keep our minds fixed on God through Scripture meditation, prayer, worship
- Trust in God’s sovereign control over all circumstances
- Obey God’s Word and follow Jesus’ example of peacemaking
- Speak words that promote peace and relationships
- Offer kindness, grace, and forgiveness to others
- Give anxieties and burdens to the Lord in prayer
- Focus on the goodness of God and His coming eternal Kingdom
When we devote ourselves to pursuing peace as the Bible teaches, the peace of God will guard our hearts and rule in our lives, despite external turmoil. We can experience inner calm by keeping our eyes on the Prince of Peace, Jesus.