Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:1 ESV)
Peace
In an old cartoon, a character stares at someone else and utters, “you have made a very powerLESS enemy.” It made me chuckle. But it was also accurate. That character did not have real power. Neither do you. Neither do I.
We are powerless enemies, despite our pride.
But God is NOT a powerless enemy.
In fact, no one is more powerful than God. What sensible person would delight in being HIS enemy?
But we are His enemies. Because we have sinned. We have done what WE desire, instead of what He desires. We have disobeyed both the letter and the spirit of His Law.
But that powerful enemy offers us peace.
Not a peace found in balance, by attempting more good deeds. We’d never catch up.
Not a peace found in deep regret. We would still be his enemies… just sorry enemies.
Not a peace like the world expects. Peace found through effort, self-sacrifice, smiley faces, or success in other areas of life.
But peace that God gives because we choose to believe Him… and believe in Him… and believe His gospel.
That faith is the only way to peace.