Fruits of the Spirit - Peace

October 6, 2013

Galatians 5:22-23“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

Introduction• Peace is regarded as one of supreme attainments of life• “Peace is a state of harmony characterized by the lack

of violence, conflict behaviors and the freedom from fear of violence.”

• Why is peace so seldom discovered?• So few find the path of peace

Review• Recognize them by their fruit Matt 7:16• Types of fruit depends on type of soil of hearts• Pathway People - Disappointed with No Fruit• Rocky People – Without deep roots• Thorny People – Lost in the weeds• Productive People – Good ground• Love is unique, comes from God• Joy is not happiness, comes from God’s presence

Peace• “Blessed are the peacemakers” Matt 5:9• “Peacemakers are people who breathe grace. They draw

continually on the goodness and power of Jesus Christ, and then they bring His love, mercy forgiveness, strength, and wisdom to the conflicts of daily life.” Ken Sande, The Peacemaker

• Peace is not passivity, stagnation, attitude of non-involvement

Peace• Producing peace calls for powerful & pronounced action

on part of peacemaker• Selfless, self-giving, self-losing, self- forgetting, self-

sacrificing love of God• Stands strong and stable despite insult, antagonism, and

hate• They are not irritable or easily enraged

Easily Provoked

God is the source and supplier of peace

• Jesus is called the Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6• God always approaches us with peace.• He has our restoration and renewal in mind.• Jesus was a man of peace, touching toughest part of

humanity.• Jesus was at peace with His enemies when they were at war

with Him.

Peace of God Produces Healing• When I let Christ in, become a person of peace.• He changes me dramatically, source of all peace• Without peace I am a problem producer.• Anger aroused & vented upon others is the exact opposite of

peace.• Binds up wounds, pours in oil of consolation, brings repose

and quietness to troubled soul.• Just because you act in peace doesn’t mean others will respond to

you in peace John 15:18

How Can I Obtain Peace?• Make peace with God through Christ.• Face myself squarely.• Don’t stop the process.

Conclusion• God is our source and supplier of peace• His peace brings healing to our hearts• Make peace with God, own your pride, repent and don’t

stop