Peace is a state of tranquility and contentment. It can be external — as in the absence of war, conflict, oppression and violence — or internal, as in peace of mind. But for most of us, the concept of peace is much easier to define than to attain.
When we look at the wars, violence and poverty in the world, it’s easy to wonder whether humans will ever really understand the meaning of peace. That’s when it’s helpful to remember that the peace of God transcends all understanding (Philippians 4:7, NIV).
If the opposite of peace is conflict, then perfect peace will not be possible until Jesus returns to restore and redeem the earth. Still, the Bible commands us to seek peace (Romans 14:19, NIV) and says that peacemakers are blessed (Matthew 5:9, NIV).
This is one reason the gospel is so powerful for children living in poverty. When children in Compassion’s program learn that inner peace is possible through Christ no matter what circumstances they live in, it gives them hope. They discover that praying and reading the Word of God give them a peace amid the chaos and struggle of life in poverty.
But digging into what the Bible says about peace is also comforting for those of us who don’t live in poverty; we all face difficulties and need peace. There are many Bible verses in the old and new testaments to help you find peace on the good days and the hard days — at home, at work, in your love life and in the Church. That’s the power of Jesus, whom the prophet Isaiah called the Prince of Peace.
Good Bible Verses About Peace
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, NIV)
And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. (Ephesians 3:18, NLT)
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13, NIV)
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. (Colossians 3:15, NIV)
The Peace of God
May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:23, NIV)
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6, NIV)
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5, NIV)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Galatians 5:22–23, NIV)
What Does the Bible Say About Peace in Hard Times?
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6–7, NIV)
But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. (Colossians 3:14–15, NKJV)
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:11, NIV)
“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.” (John 14:18–19, NIV)
We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God. (Acts 14:22, NIV)
Peace Among Nations
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people — for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. (1 Timothy 2:1–2, NIV)
But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. (Jeremiah 29:7, ESV)
“I will grant peace in the land, and you will lie down and no one will make you afraid. I will remove wild beasts from the land, and the sword will not pass through your country.” (Leviticus 26:6, NIV)
The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace. (Psalm 29:11, NIV)
“‘I will make a covenant of peace with them and rid the land of savage beasts so that they may live in the wilderness and sleep in the forests in safety.” (Ezekiel 34:25, NIV)
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” (Isaiah 52:7, NIV)
What Does Proverbs Say About Peace?
Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy. (Proverbs 12:20, NIV)
A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot. (Proverbs 14:30, ESV)
My son, do not forget my law, But let your heart keep my commands; For length of days and long life And peace they will add to you. (Proverbs 3:1–2, NKJV)
When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. (Proverbs 16:7, ESV)
Psalms About Peace
I will listen to what God the LORD says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants — but let them not turn to folly. (Psalm 85:8, NIV)
Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble. (Psalm 119:165, NIV)
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe. (Psalm 4:8, NLT)
Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. (Psalm 34:14, NIV)
But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity. (Psalm 37:11, NIV)
Peace With Others
Live in peace with each other. (1 Thessalonians 5:13, NIV)
For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. (1 Corinthians 14:33, ESV)
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers. (Psalm 1:1, NIV)
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:2–3, NIV)
Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. (James 3:18, NIV)
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9, NIV)
For he himself is our peace, who has made the [Jews and Gentiles] one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace. (Ephesians 2:14–15, NIV)
Blessings of Peace
Peace to the brothers and sisters, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 6:23, NIV)
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all. (2 Thessalonians 3:16, NLT)
Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” (John 20:21, NIV)
The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace. (Numbers 6:26, NKJV)