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sadness , or health as the absence of disease , or life as “ not dead .” Peace is not an absence but a presence : the presence of the Lord with us .
It appears as if we were alone in our spiritual battles , but the Lord is with us always , and fights for us by means of the truths He teaches us in His Word . “ These things I have spoken to you , that in Me you may have peace . In the world you will have tribulation ; but be of good cheer , I have overcome the world .” ( John 16:33 )
The Lord promised His disciples a kind peace that far transcends any peace the world can provide , or that we can find on our own . “ My peace I give unto you ; not as the world giveth give I unto you .” ( John 14:27 ).
Peace is happiness of heart and soul arising from the conjunction of the Lord with heaven and the church , as well as from the conjunction of good and truth , when all conflict and combat of evil and falsity with good and truth has ceased . ( Apocalypse Explained 997 : 4 )
Spiritual practices such as meditation may help us in our quest for peace , but apart from the love of God , the light of truth from His Word , a life of charity , and trust in His providence , nothing can give us the kind of peace we most need – “ the Peace of God that passeth all understanding .” ( Philippians 4:7 )
The two inmost qualities of heaven are innocence and peace . Innocence is a willingness to follow the Lord , the source of all goodness . Peace is the delight that the good of innocence brings with it , and this enters into all the joys of heaven . They arise from it and converge upon it .
During our life in this world , the peace of heaven is not perceptible to us ; even in the best of people it “ lies hidden in their interiors .” But those who have gone through a temptation and come into a new state of love and wisdom can feel something of heavenly peace even in this world . It is said to be like a spring morning when dew is on the grass and the fragrance of opening blossoms fills the air . ( See the chapter on heavenly peace in Heaven and Hell 284-290 .)
Whatever turmoil and hardships we may have to endure in this world , trusting in providence gives us confidence , and the promise of peace gives us hope .
For unto us a Child is born , unto us a Son is given : and the government shall be upon His shoulder : and His name shall be called Wonderful , Counselor , The Mighty God , The Everlasting Father , The Prince of Peace . Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end . ( Isaiah 9:6 )
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