The Bond of Peace

Discipleship Devotional, April 5th, 2025

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
— Ephesians 4:3 (NIV)

God wants all His children to dwell in love, unity, and oneness. No wonder Jesus said that the only way people will know we are His disciples is if we love one another. So God is very particular about our oneness of spirit and fellowship, and one very important way of maintaining this is by the bond of peace.

As seen in our anchor text, genuine peace among believers is able to produce such oneness of spirit and purpose. This is so important because there are certain things believers cannot achieve except with a oneness of spirit.

Our Lord Jesus said that if we agree together as touching a matter, it shall be done for us in heaven. In the context, the agreement Jesus was speaking of was as opposed to strife and malice (Matt. 18:15–20).

Follow peace with all men,
— Hebrews 12:14 (KJV)

The “bond of peace” isn’t the kind of peace that exists just outwardly when inwardly, there is strife. No! It is not the kind of peace we see in the world today where two parties hate each other but just have to “let peace reign.” No, it is the kind of peace produced in us by the Holy Spirit. It is the peace that Jesus gives. Don’t forget that Jesus said the peace He gives is not like that of the world. This is a peace inspired by genuine love for one another.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
— John 14:27 (KJV)

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I ask that You promote Your love, peace, and unity in Your churches today. Lord, promote the teaching of genuine love and peace in Your churches.