Fruit of the Spirit: How to Grow in Peace

Let us consider an Old Testament example of someone who was not at peace. Read I Kings 19:1-18. Elijah was afraid for his life. He was worn out and depressed. Elijah went into the wilderness and met with God. Then he was able to return and continue to serve God.

The discipline of solitude will help us grow in peace. Solitude is the practice of finding a place where we can be alone with God for an extended period of time, at least several hours or, if possible, several days.

A couple examples from Scripture: Jacob sent his family away so that he could spend a night alone with God. He wrestled with the Lord all night long. Read Genesis 32:2-32.

Jesus often spent time alone with God the Father. "When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place." (Matthew 14:13a) "After he had dismissed the them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone." (Matthew 14:23) "One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God." (Luke 6:12)

Solitude allows us to get away from distractions, disturbances and the business of life. By putting ourselves in a peaceful setting, and diligently seeking the Lord of peace, we can find peace.