1. Peace The one commodity this world craves for, and due to sin has been unable to find.

2. Peace is Positive  The expression of a harmonious relationship.  A sense of well being and of rest.  Many describe peace as the absence of hostility but peace is not evidenced because something is missing.

3. Shalom-Hebrew  Harmony  Wholeness  Soundness  Well being and success in all areas of life.  When God created the heavens and the earth in Gen. 1,2, he created a world of peace.

4. Disruption of Peace  When Adam and Eve listened to the voice of the serpent and ate from the forbidden tree. Gen.3:1-7  Their disobedience introduced sin and disrupted harmony.  They lost inner peace and felt guilt and shame for the first time. Gen. 3:8

5. Sin Destroyed Their Harmony with God  Before-They had intimate fellowship.  Afterwards-They hid from God.  They were now afraid of his voice.  Have things changed that much now?

6. Husband and Wife Relationship Disrupted.  God discussed their sin with them and they began to blame. Gen 3:12  God pronounced strife would continue between man and woman. Gen. 3:16  This is the social conflict that causes arguments and violence in the homes.

7. Restoration of Peace  Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

8. The Problem  Merely knowing that Christ came as the prince of peace does not automatically ensure that peace will become a part of our lives.  We must become united with Christ with an active faith.

9. Matthew 5:9  Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God.  Those who have been reconciled to God.  They have peace through the cross.  They strive to bring others including their enemies to peace with God.

10. John 14:27  Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

11. John 16:33  I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

12. Col. 3:15  Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

13. Romans 8:6  The mind of sinful man is death but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace.

14. What Remains in Your Mind That Brings Death  Fear  Anxiety  Complaining  Condescending  Ambivalence  Double-mindedness  Judgment  Compromise

15. Phil. 4:7  And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.