Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, even Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                          Hebrews 13:20-21 

Today’s passage is often labeled a “benediction.” But it contains a wonderful reminder that because of the new covenant, believers in Jesus Christ can live in the power that comes from being at peace with God.

Sometimes there is confusion surrounding the peace of God. We see that there seems to be an escalation in wars and conflict between nations. We see neighbors lasing out at their fellow man. But the peace of God does not guarantee that there will be peace between individuals. In fact, even families can be divided between those who belong to Christ and those who do not. Consider Jesus’ words concerning this reality:

“Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? I tell you, no, but rather division; for from now on five members in one household will be divided, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”

                                                                                                               Luke 12:51-53 

Those who do not belong to Christ by faith will ultimately oppose those who do. This spiritual division can only be alleviated when the unsaved person comes to saving faith in Jesus. Then and only then will that individual’s spiritual eyes be opened as his/her new life in Christ begins (2 Corinthians 5:17). But until that day, spiritual opposition will continue to exist between the saved and the lost.

But the peace of God is that which guards the hearts and minds of the believer. Fellowship with God comes as we place our faith in the finished work of Jesus on the cross and lean, rely, and depend on His love, forgiveness, and salvation. Consider these two passages regarding the peace of God:

The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You. 

                                                                                                                 Isaiah 26:3

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. 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 comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

                                                                                                               Philippians 4:4-7

As we draw to the close of our look at Hebrews, are you living in the power that comes from the new covenant? Do you celebrate your opportunity to enjoy favor and blessing from God? May this be an opportunity for all of us to enter into covenant relationship with God through the power of the cross! (Romans 1:16)