( Matt. 24:3-8 ) The first function of the fruit of peace is to prevent the hearts of God's people from being troubled. It is the responsibility of each individual not to be troubled by life's externals. We must take the initiative and individually cultivate the fruit of peace in our own hearts.

( 1 Kings 9:11-12 ; 1 Pet. 5:7 ) God speaks in a still, small voice. It is up to us to take the time and effort to sit quietly and hear His voice. He will be faithful to flood our troubled minds with peace so that we can hear the words He has especially for us.

( Col. 3:15 ; Gal. 6:9 ; John 10:10 ) It is up to the believer to 'let' peace rule in his heart because peace must be developed by an act of the will through practice. As we become sensitive to the leading of God's peace, we will become better able to perceive the leading of His Spirit.

( Prov. 4:23 ; Isa. 9:6 ; Eph. 2:13-14,17 ; Heb. 12:14 ; Eph. 4:22-24 ) God desires that we develop into peacemakers. This involves not reacting to life's externals, protecting or defending self and one's 'rights'. The law of revenge and retaliation is abolished under the dispensation of grace. We are to respond to evil only with acts of love. As we cultivate the fruit of peace, will we have the strength to bestow love, blessings, kindness and prayer upon those who resist us with evil.

( 1 Tim. 2:1-2 ; Ps. 122:5-7 ; Matt. 5:43-45 ) We are to pray for those who disagree with us as well as those who share our views, those who oppose and demean us, as well as those who esteem us. We are to place priority to pray for our political and spiritual leaders.

( John 15:4-5 ; John 16:33 ; Matt. 10:39 ; Isa. 26:3 ) As we abide in Jesus, we cultivate the fruit of peace by remaining continually in His Presence regardless of one's feelings or circumstances. Ultimately, we will find peace only in Him. Insecurity results when we live for our own self-interest rather than for God's purposes for our lives.

( Rom. 12:1 ; Ps. 119:165 ; John 14:23-24 ; Prov. 3:1-2 ) Loving the word of God, believers cultivate peace in their lives. Believers who lack peace in their hearts should examine themselves to see if they are doing what they know to do of God's word.

( 1 Kings 22:17 ; Lev. 26:6 ; 2 Kings 22:20 ; 1 Sam. 25:6 ; Ps. 37:37 ; Phil. 4:7 ; Ps. 55:18 ) The child of God who lives by God's commandments will have peace in his house, in the land, in the grave, in prosperity, in his soul, in his heart, in abundance, in his children and throughout eternity.