Great peace have they which love Thy law, and nothing shall offend them. Psalm 119:165
Students from a junior high school were taking part in a day-long hike, and were plodding wearily along the highway as our media van met them. Noticing our cameras, they flashed the two-finger peace sign that was so popular back then, in the early 70s. I thought of how even the young people were mindlessly caught up in the peace movement of that time, talking about peace, urging world peace and disarmament, and emblazoning everything with the so-called peace emblem, the broken cross in a circle, which was actually an anti-Christianity emblem that was pressed into service for the cause. In most cases, peace movement people had not a clue what they were protesting and demonstrating about. All they thought was peace would be wonderful to have so let’s proclaim it. Most of the world is like that, wanting peace but not knowing what it even is. But the Lord’s people know peace, and have it available in abundance.
Our text speaks of great peace, available to those who love God’s law. The world has known some periods and events marked by peace. For example, the Pax Romana marked a 200 year period in which the Roman empire had no wars. And the armistice marking the end of the first World War is still commemmorated each November 11th, almost a century later. But wars, strife, and turmoil have marked this planet’s history and continue to do so. Most of the bloodiest wars of history have involved religion. Most importantly, those who know not God are at enmity with Him, despite His offer of peace. We who have accepted the offer today appreciate the blessing of being at peace with God and with each other. And that appreciation can grow as we learn more of Him.
The Lord Jesus is called the Prince of Peace. This great title reminds us that only through Him can peace enter our hearts and become real. This is the great peace of which our text speaks. To be saved is to know this peace. To grow in our knowledge of our Lord and His word is to know great peace. It is no coincidence that the Christians who know God’s word the best know the most about the peace that passeth all understanding. This peace cannot be described or defined, it can only be known by those who have attained to a full knowledge of and appreciation for the Word of God.
To know God’s Word is to know peace. To obey God’s Word is to enjoy peace. To love God’s word is to experience great peace. -Jim MacIntosh