Finding Lasting Peace in a Restless Age

“On that day, this song will be sung in the land of Judah: We have a strong city; he sets up salvation as walls and bulwarks. Open the gates, that the righteous nation that keeps faith may enter in. You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.” – Isaiah 26:3-4 (ESV).  

The New Oxford American Dictionary defines “peace” as:

“peace | pēs | (noun)

1) freedom from disturbance; tranquility; (a mental calm; serenity): 2) a state or period in which there is no war, or a war has ended: 3) a treaty agreeing to the cessation of war between warring states: 4) freedom from civil disorder: 5) freedom from dispute or dissension between individuals or groups.”

A quick glance at the world reveals the opposite of peace: unrest, strife, contention, hostility, and violence continue to dominate headlines. And yet, we still long for peace. 

Peace is a foundational ideal in many philosophies, religions, and worldviews. In society, it’s often understood as the absence of conflict—no war, no violence, no unrest. However, as sincere as we may be in our efforts to strive for peace, our best intentions often fall short. 

Why? Because peace is more than the absence of conflict. True and lasting peace is rooted in a relationship with God. 

The absence of peace stems from brokenness—sin, disobedience, and damaged relationships. Isaiah reminds his audience (and us) that God is the one who keeps us in perfect peace—for those whose minds are “stayed” (anchored, fixed) on Him and who trust in Him.

True peace begins with a restored relationship with our Creator.

When we are disconnected from God, we experience an inner unrest that ripples outward, affecting our relationships, communities, and even our nations. Below are several factors that consistently disturb peace in the world today: 

• Fear and self-preservation. Fear of loss (of power, security, or identity) often drives aggression and defensiveness. Tribalism and rigid group identities can lead to exclusion—or even hostility. 
• Power and self-interest. Genuine peace threatens entrenched power. Conflict often benefits the powerful through control, wealth, or distraction. In competitive systems, compromise is frequently viewed as a weakness. 
• Unhealed injustice. Historical wounds and generational trauma create resentment. Without accountability and healing, injustice perpetuates division and retaliation. 
• Inequality and scarcity. Real or perceived lack of resources fosters resentment, instability, and desperation. 
• Ideological rigidity. Nationalism, extremism, and religious dogmatism hinder dialogue and mutual understanding. 
• Miscommunication and dehumanization. Despite increased connectivity, we are more divided. Misinformation, echo chambers, and social media often attempt to strip others of their humanity, making it easier to justify harm. 

Isaiah’s words ultimately point to a future reality—the Millennial Kingdom (a 1,000-year reign of Christ on earth, described in Revelation 20:1-6). On that day, the redeemed—those in relationship with the Prince of Peace—will sing songs of deliverance and strength. 

But Isaiah also calls us to action now. 

Peace isn’t just a heavenly dream. It’s the slow, daily, deliberate work of working for justice, empathy, resilience, and relationships. It requires courage, sacrifice, and persistence.

Peace eludes us not because it’s impossible, but because it’s uncomfortable. 

“For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, ‘There is peace and security,’ then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 (ESV). 

I will continue to pray and work toward peace, because it’s the right thing to do. But I must also remind myself: Peace isn’t just about tranquility or tolerance. It requires patience, respect, compassion, kindness, self-control, courage, moderation, and forgiveness. 

Above all, “true and everlasting peace”

is only found in a relationship with God.

Reflection

• What do you think it means to have your mind “stayed on God” in today’s fast-paced world?
• Which of the barriers to peace listed in this blog feels most pressing in your community and relationships?
• How does your personal understanding of peace shift when viewed through the lens of a relationship with God?