He is “Shalom” Peace

Jehovah Shalom – The Lord is Peace

Jehovah Shalom is one of the most well known names of God, and it all began with a deeply loved hero of the Bible, Gideon.

We love Gideon because he seemed so ordinary, just like us. When God called him to lead Israel out of seven years of oppression, Gideon did not respond with confidence or faith:

“Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest … and I am the least in my family.” (Judges 6:15)

It is a beautiful passage filled with honesty, angels, offerings, encouragement for Gideon, and the very voice of God. Finally God reveals himself as the source of peace promising “Peace! Do not be afraid” (6:23), and Gideon out of revelation builds an altar of worship and names it Jehovah Shalom – “The Lord is Peace.”

It is striking to me that Gideon is able to make this declaration before the overwhelming battle ahead. Personally, when facing challenges, I am often tempted to wrestle through the problem in my mind first, thinking peace will follow. But here, Gideon teaches us to find peace not in the potential outcome, but in the presence and promise of God.

Then when the time came to fight, the victory did not come because of Gideon’s strength: “the Spirit of the Lord came on Gideon” (Judges 6:34). It was not by his might or his power, but by the Spirit of God.

I love that God reveals the Holy Spirit at work here who we also know brings the fruit of peace (Gal 5:22), which is is supernatural, or beyond understanding. (Phil 4:7).

Your peace matters deeply to God. Jesus Himself is called the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). And before He went to the cross, Jesus left this promise for us:

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27 NIV)

The peace of God was promised to Gideon before the battle, the Spirit of God rested upon him during the battle, and Jesus left His very peace with us in his final hours.

It is in the heart of God that you would walk in peace.

Reflection:

Where do you need peace today? Take a moment to invite Jehovah Shalom into the middle of your situation. Know that God is with you and at work in it.

Thank you God that your heart for us is to walk in peace. Help us do that all the more.

-Mindy Newsome