Come Holy Spirit Series: Week 4 Part B Fruit of the Spirit: Peace

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Week 4: The Fruit of the Spirit: Peace

“The fruit of the Spirit is… peace…” — Galatians 5:22

 

Introduction: A Stillness That Surpasses Understanding

Peace is often misunderstood as the absence of noise, conflict, or trouble. But the peace of the Holy Spirit goes far beyond that. It is a deep, unshakable stillness, even in the midst of storms. It’s the peace Jesus offered when He said, “My peace I give you” (John 14:27)—not the fragile peace of the world, but a peace rooted in trust, surrender, and the indwelling presence of God.

Peace is the quiet confidence that God is here, and all will be well.

 

What Does Scripture Say?

• John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you.”
• Philippians 4:7 – “Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
• Isaiah 26:3 – “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”

Peace is God’s gift to those who rest their lives in Him, even when life feels uncertain.

 

What Does the Church Say?

From the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2304):

“Respect for and development of human life require peace. Peace is not merely the absence of war… Peace is the work of justice and the effect of charity.”

And from the Compendium (480):

“Peace is the tranquillity of order, the work of justice and the effect of charity.”

This reminds us that true peace isn't passive—it’s active. It is born when our hearts are aligned with God’s justice and filled with divine love. Peace is a fruit of the Spirit because it flows naturally from a heart in communion with Him.

How Does Peace Connect with the Gifts of the Spirit?

• Wisdom leads us to trust in God’s plan and surrender to His timing.
• Understanding helps us see the bigger picture when we feel anxious or afraid.
• Counsel guides us toward decisions that promote peace in our relationships and communities.

When the gifts are at work, peace is the fruit that blossoms gently, often without our realizing it. Others may notice the calm, grounded way we carry ourselves—even when life is difficult.

 

Practicing the Fruit of Peace

Growing in peace means becoming a person of quiet trust, deep prayer, and gentle presence. Here are ways to practice peace this week:

• Create moments of silence: Even five minutes of silence with the Holy Spirit can reset your heart. Peace begins in stillness.
• Pray slowly with Scripture: Let a short verse (like John 14:27) become your anchor throughout the day. Return to it often.
• Breathe deeply, speak gently: Let your words be wrapped in calm. Even under stress, choose words that build bridges.
• Seek reconciliation: Is there someone you’re out of step with? Take a step toward healing, even if it’s a small gesture.
• Trust God with what you cannot control: Write down your worries, then place them—symbolically or literally—into God’s hands.

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” — Colossians 3:15

 

Journal Opportunity: Reflecting on Peace

1. What does peace feel like to me? When have I felt closest to this kind of peace?
2. Where in my life do I long for greater peace—externally or within?
3. What robs me of peace most often?
4. How can I become a more peaceful presence in my home, work, or parish?
5. How might the Holy Spirit be inviting me to receive and share peace today?

 

Closing Prayer

Come, Holy Spirit, Giver of Peace,
calm my anxious thoughts.
Teach me the kind of peace that doesn’t depend on circumstances.
Let my life reflect Your stillness, Your serenity, Your trust.
When my heart is troubled, remind me that You are near.
Make me a bearer of peace in a world that so desperately needs it.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.