Fruit Inspection Part 3 (Peace)

Have you ever felt like there's more going on in life than what meets the eye? That perhaps the struggles we face aren't just physical or emotional, but spiritual as well? The truth is, as believers, we are constantly functioning in two realms simultaneously - the natural and the spiritual.  

This concept might seem foreign or even uncomfortable to some, but it's a reality that we must come to terms with if we want to live victorious Christian lives. The Bible tells us in Ephesians 6:12, "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."  What does this mean for us? It means that the conflicts we face, the challenges we encounter, and even the thoughts that plague our minds might have spiritual roots. That coworker who seems to have it out for you? That persistent temptation you can't seem to shake? These could be manifestations of spiritual warfare.

But here's the good news: we're not left defenseless. God has equipped us with powerful tools to navigate both realms effectively. One of the most potent weapons in our arsenal is the fruit of the Spirit, particularly peace.  Peace is not just the absence of conflict; it's a powerful force that can calm storms, both literal and figurative. Remember the story of Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4? While the disciples panicked as their boat filled with water, Jesus was peacefully asleep. When awakened, He simply said, "Peace, be still," and the tempest ceased.

This wasn't just a display of Jesus' power over nature. It was a demonstration of how peace can be used as a weapon against chaos and fear. As believers, we have access to this same peace. Colossians 3:15 (Amplified) tells us to "let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts."

But how do we cultivate this peace in our lives? Here are a few practical steps:

1. Pursue peace intentionally: 1 Peter 3:11 encourages us to "seek peace and pursue it." This isn't a passive action. We must actively chase after peace in our relationships, our minds, and our spirits.

2. Mind your own business: As simple as it sounds, 1 Thessalonians 4:11 advises us to "make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business." Sometimes, our lack of peace comes from involving ourselves in matters that aren't ours to solve.

3. Let peace be your guide: When making decisions, let the peace of God be your compass. If you don't have peace about a situation, it might be a sign to wait or change course.

4. Guard your mind: What we consume affects our peace. Be mindful of the media, conversations, and environments you expose yourself to.

5. Stay grounded in God's Word: Regular study and meditation on Scripture fortifies our spirits against attacks that would rob us of peace.

It's crucial to understand that living in peace doesn't mean we won't face trials. Jesus Himself said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). The difference is in how we respond to these trials.  When we operate in the flesh - giving in to anger, bitterness, or fear - we open doors for spiritual attacks. But when we choose to walk in the Spirit, manifesting love, joy, peace, and the other fruits, we build a strong defense against these unseen forces.

This understanding of the two realms we inhabit should change how we view our daily lives. That persistent negative thought? It might not just be low self-esteem, but a spiritual attack that needs to be countered with truth. That conflict in your family? It could be more than just personality clashes; it might require spiritual warfare through prayer and walking in love.  As we become more aware of this spiritual dimension, we must also be cautious. Not every problem is a demon, and not every solution is an exorcism. Wisdom and discernment, guided by the Holy Spirit and grounded in Scripture, are essential.

Moreover, this knowledge should motivate us to dive deeper into God's Word. Many believers settle for surface-level engagement with Scripture, relying on daily devotionals or social media quotes. While these can be helpful, they're not enough to equip us for the spiritual battles we face. We need to study, meditate, and apply the full counsel of God's Word to our lives.  Living with an awareness of both realms also highlights the importance of community. We need fellow believers who understand these truths, who can pray with us, support us, and help us discern spiritual realities. This is why being part of a Bible-believing church and having spiritual mentors is crucial.

In conclusion, as we navigate life in these two realms, let's remember that our ultimate goal is to align ourselves more closely with the heavenly realm. This is where we'll spend eternity, so why not learn to function in it now? Let's pursue peace, walk in the Spirit, and arm ourselves with the full armor of God.  By doing so, we'll not only experience more victory in our personal lives but also become more effective in advancing God's kingdom here on earth. After all, isn't that what we're here for? To be light in the darkness, to be peacemakers in a chaotic world, and to point others to the One who has overcome it all?

So, the next time you face a challenge, pause and consider: Is this just a natural occurrence, or is there a spiritual dimension to this situation? Then, armed with the peace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, face it head-on. You are more than a conqueror through Christ who loves you!