Peace: The Power and Depth of Shalom 

Peace: The Power and Depth of Shalom  by Cynthia Greene

When we hear the word peace, we often think of calm circumstances, quiet, or the absence of conflict. These are definitions of peace, however they do not paint the whole picture when it comes to the use of the word Shalom used in the the Bible.  Biblical peace goes far beyond an outward calm.

Shalom means:

• Wholeness and completeness—nothing missing, nothing broken
• Well-being and soundness
• Security and safety
• To make peace
• Restore harmony
• Prosperity and fruitfulness
• Victory and stability
• Contentment, tranquility, and rest

In Scripture, however, the Hebrew word Shalom brings depth to the meaning of the word peace and describes God’s active power to rule over chaos and restore what has been broken.  Shalom is not a passive work, it is an active word that is the result of God’s authority establishing order.

We see this revealed throughout Scripture:

• Genesis 1:2-3 where God brings order (shalom) out of chaos (tohu va-vohu).
  • Shalom begins with God speaking and establishing order out of chaos and confusion.
• In Psalm 89:9  “Thou rules the raging of the sea: when the waves thereof arise, thou stillest them.”
  • God’s peace replaces the raging sea.
• 1 Corinthians 1:16-17 “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.”
  • God’s rule is one of peace and order.

Scripture repeatedly reveals shalom as God’s gift for His people.  Biblical peace is not something we can bring about on our own.

• Numbers 6:24–26
  “The LORD bless thee, and keep thee… and give thee peace (shalom).”
  — Peace here is the result of God’s blessing, protection, and favor.
• Isaiah 9:6
  “And his name shall be called… The Prince of Peace.”
  — The Messiah rules by restoring order and wholeness, not merely ending conflict.  His reign will establish everlasting Shalom.
• Isaiah 32:17
  “And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever.”
  — Shalom flows from right relationship with God and obeying His ways.
• Psalm 85:10
  “Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.”
  — Peace is the harmony of God’s attributes working together.  There is no compromise of the truth.
• Jeremiah 29:11
  “For I know the plans I have for you… plans for peace (shalom) and not for evil.”
  — God’s Shalom offers us hope.
• John 14:27
  “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world gives.”
  — Jesus distinguishes Shalom from temporary, worldly peace which is a counterfeit peace.

In scripture, Shalom is the peace that God gives—not the peace we try to create through our own control, effort, or circumstances.

• Isaiah 26:3“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee.”
  • Biblical peace flows from trust and focus on God.
• Philippians 4:6–7 “And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
  • This peace guards our minds and our hearts.

To walk in Shalom is to live from a place of trust, alignment, and surrender to God’s authority. It means yielding control and allowing God to restore what is broken, heal what is wounded, and bring order where chaos once ruled.

Shalom reminds us that true peace is not simply the absence of problems, but the powerful presence of God—bringing order, and restoring wholeness in our lives.

Song: Peace Like A River

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