Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Today’s verse is not one we typically focus on outside of the Christmas season, but the Bible is relevant any day of the year, whether in the middle of summer or around the holidays.
The book of Isaiah was written around 700 BC and in it the prophet Isaiah gave a promise that was originally meant to give comfort to the people of Israel during a time of political instability and threat. The promise of a coming earthly king who would rescue the nation was a comfort to the people and something they eagerly awaited and looked forward to. But they did not realize just what this prophecy meant. This coming king would not be one who ruled over their nation. He would be so much more than that.
One of the names He was given in this prophecy was Prince of Peace. This is directly translated from the Hebrew words Sar Shalom. Sar implies that He would be a leader or a ruler, while shalom was more than just the absence of conflict, which is what we typically think of when we use the English word peace – it was wholeness and completeness. The Prince of Peace or Sar Shalom would be the One who would reconcile people to God and who would establish an eternal kingdom.
What are some ways we can be living a life of peace while we await the return of the Prince of Peace and His earthly rule?
So much of what we do stems from what we think. It begins there, in the mind. If our mind is not focused on the right things, on the right Person and His ways, we will not be living in peace. We need to guard our minds and fill it with His Word, with praise and worship, and foster a sense of calm and peace in our lives.
Embrace peace with those who you are at odds with. Where there is offense, set things straight. Seek reconciliation. Be the first to apologize. Offer forgiveness and restore broken relationships. Life is too short to let conflict interrupt fellowship.
And live for Him. Live a life that is pleasing to God. Seek His ways, His will, His purpose for your life. Seek to be set apart and righteous. Let His peace fill your heart, your mind, your soul. Let His peace rule in your life, as one day He will rule this world.
What other ways can you think of to bring peace into your life?
Prayer: Lord, Thank You for filling me with Your great, merciful peace and joy. Let me embrace this peace wholly and share it with others as we look forward to the day You return to rule as the Prince of Peace. Amen
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