Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love. —Romans 5:1-5

SHALOM (Hebrew) – Peace, safe & sound, healthy & complete, tranquil without agitation, calm without anxiety

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give you.” —John 14:27

God has given us grace in the past
to experience grace in the present
so we can live in grace forever.

Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him… —Colossians 2:6
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith… —Ephesians 2:8
If by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.
—Romans 11:6
…(we) who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ. —Romans 5:17

Read about the miracle joy of the healed man in Acts 3.

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. —James 1:2-4
Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, rejoice… —Philippians 4:4

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES
Books
Another Gospel? by Alisa Childers
The Case for Heaven by Lee Strobel
The Questions Christians Hope No One Will Ask by Mark Mittelberg

Videos & More
gracestl.org/weekend-resources

Find Support for Women Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence
Sherryl: 314-712-7688 or safeharborgracestl@gmail.com

Discussion Questions
1. Why isn’t peace with God inherent in everyone as part of His creation? What does it feel like to gain peace with God?