It’s easy to feel as though peace is elusive in the chaos of daily life. Stress, past experiences, and even unspoken fears can quietly block the calm we crave. But have you ever paused to consider what might be truly standing in your way? Often, the obstacles to peace lie not in our circumstances but in how we process them. In this article, we’ll explore the deeper forces that disrupt our sense of peace and how you can begin to reclaim it this year.
The peace God offers us is not just the absence of conflict—it’s a deep, abiding sense of wholeness and security, rooted in His presence. Yeshua said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.” Yet, this divine peace is often challenged by the enemy of our souls, who uses subtle and relentless tactics to steal it from us. Many times, we don’t even realize the battle we’re in until anxiety, doubt, or chaos have already crept into our hearts.
The Bible warns us in 1 Peter 5:8 to “be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” This includes attacking our peace. Whether through fear, distractions, or division, the enemy’s goal is to separate us from the tranquility God intends for us to have. In this article, we’ll explore the ways these attacks manifest and how we can guard against them to walk in the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Recognizing the Thieves of Peace
Life has a way of challenging the peace we long for. There are moments when, no matter how hard we try, the weight of fear, doubt, or conflict feels impossible to escape. Yeshua offers us a peace unlike anything the world can give—a peace that steadies our hearts even in the most difficult times. But it’s easy to lose sight of this promise when we’re overwhelmed by life’s struggles.
The truth is, the enemy doesn’t always attack in obvious ways. Often, he sneaks in quietly, planting seeds of doubt, fear, or distraction. His goal is to separate us from the peace Yeshua so lovingly provides. If you’ve felt your peace slipping away, know that you’re not alone. Let’s take a closer look at the ways this happens, not to dwell on the attacks but to empower you to reclaim the peace that has always been yours.
1. Deception
Description: The enemy distorts the truth to cause confusion and doubt.
Example: In Genesis 3, Satan deceived Eve by twisting God’s words, leading to the fall. Similarly, he may whisper lies like, “You’re not good enough” or “God doesn’t care about you,” to create self-doubt.
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2. Fear and Anxiety
Description: He uses fear to make us focus on circumstances rather than God’s promises.
Example: In Matthew 14:30, Peter began to sink when he looked at the storm instead of Yeshua. Today, financial worries, health issues, or global crises can cause anxiety if we take our eyes off God.
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3. Temptation
Description: Satan lures us into sin, which disrupts our relationship with God and steals our peace.
Example: In Matthew 4:1-11, he tempted Yeshua in the wilderness, appealing to physical needs, pride, and power. He might tempt us to lie, cheat, or indulge in unhealthy behaviors, promising temporary satisfaction but leaving guilt and unrest.
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4. Accusation and Guilt
Description: The enemy accuses us of past sins to make us feel unworthy of God’s forgiveness.
Example: Revelation 12:10 calls Satan “the accuser of the brethren.” He might remind us of past failures, saying, “How could God love someone like you?” leading to shame and a loss of peace.
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5. Division
Description: Satan sows discord in relationships, causing strife and broken connections.
Example: In Acts 15:39, a sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas led to their separation. Today, he may use misunderstandings, jealousy, or pride to divide families, friendships, or churches.
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6. Distraction
Description: He diverts our focus from God to worldly concerns or busyness.
Example: In Luke 10:40–42, Martha was distracted by preparations, missing the peace found in sitting at Yeshua’s feet like Mary. Modern distractions include excessive screen time, workaholism, or pursuing material wealth.
Remember these powerful Scriptures to combat the lies of the enemy, each reminding us of God’s truth and promises:
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1. When the enemy says you’re unworthy or unloved:
Romans 8:38-39
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Messiah Yeshua, our Lord.”
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2. When the enemy tells you you’re not enough:
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Messiah’s power may rest on me.”
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3. When the enemy tries to make you doubt God’s faithfulness:
Lamentations 3:22-23
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”
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4. When the enemy says you can’t overcome your circumstances:
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through the Messiah, who strengthens me.”
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
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5. When the enemy whispers that you’re alone:
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
As we reflect on what has been blocking our peace, it’s essential to remember that peace is not something we earn but a precious gift Yeshua freely offers. The struggles and distractions we face, though real and sometimes overwhelming, do not define us. The lies of the enemy may try to shake us, but the truth of God’s Word reminds us of who we are: deeply loved, chosen, and protected. Each day is an opportunity to stand firm in the promises of our Father, to let go of what has stolen our peace, and to embrace the rest and wholeness only He can provide.
This new year brings a chance to reclaim the peace that was always meant to be yours. Begin by taking small, intentional steps—spend time in prayer, meditate on His Word, and surround yourself with reminders of His truth. You are not alone in this journey; the One who calms storms is with you, offering strength for every battle and hope for every day. Let this year be the one where peace becomes your foundation, not because life is perfect, but because His presence is enough. The road may not always be easy, but with God as your guide, peace is not only possible—it is promised.
THE CS COLUMN 