How can we be "found at peace" as instructed in 2 Peter 3:14? Setting the Scene “Therefore, beloved, as you are looking forward to these things, make every effort to be found at peace—spotless and blameless in His sight.” (2 Peter 3:14) The “these things” are the promised return of Christ, the judgment of the ungodly, and the creation of “new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13). In light of that coming day, we’re urged to live so that the Lord finds us “at peace.” Peace Begins with Reconciliation to God • Romans 5:1 — “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” • Peace isn’t primarily a feeling; it is a settled relationship secured by Christ’s atoning work. • Repentance and faith place us under His righteousness, making us “spotless and blameless” in position. Living Spotless and Blameless “Make every effort” signals diligent cooperation with the Spirit: • Daily confession keeps short accounts with sin (1 John 1:9). • Ongoing surrender to the Spirit bears the fruit of peace (Galatians 5:22–23). • Obedient living shows that our hope is fixed on His return (1 John 3:3). Cultivating Inner Peace • Isaiah 26:3 — “You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You.” • Philippians 4:6–7 — Hand every worry to the Lord; His peace “will guard your hearts and your minds.” • 1 Peter 5:7 — Cast every anxiety on Him; He cares. Practical helps: – Start and end the day in Scripture. – Memorize promises that answer particular fears. – Speak truth to your soul when emotions surge (Psalm 42:5). Maintaining Peace with Others • Hebrews 12:14 — “Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” • Colossians 3:13–15 — Forgive as Christ forgave; let His peace rule in your hearts. Steps: – Initiate reconciliation quickly (Matthew 5:23–24). – Refuse bitterness; choose blessing (Romans 12:17–18). – Serve, listen, and bear burdens within the body of Christ (Galatians 6:2). Staying Diligent until He Comes • Keep watch (Matthew 24:42). • Stir up hope by remembering His promise (2 Peter 3:9). • Encourage one another all the more as we see the Day approaching (Hebrews 10:24–25). Verses to Keep Close • 2 Thessalonians 3:16 — “Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way.” • John 14:27 — “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you… Do not let your hearts be troubled.” • Psalm 119:165 — “Abundant peace belongs to those who love Your law; nothing can make them stumble.” By being reconciled to God through Christ, pursuing holiness, trusting His promises, and extending peace to others, we can live so that when He appears, we’ll be “found at peace—spotless and blameless in His sight.” |
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