Lessons of Faith from Joshua - Sabbath School Lesson 5 - Thursday
The Prince of Peace
Read: Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 11:1–5; Isaiah 60:17; Hosea 2:18; Micah 4:3; 2 Kings 6:16–23
The prophet Isaiah foresaw a day when God’s people would live in a world transformed by righteousness, justice, and peace. Isaiah 9:6 calls the promised Messiah “The Prince of Peace,” the One whose reign would bring harmony where there had been hostility, and healing where there had been hurt. Isaiah 11:1–5 paints a picture of this Messiah—Jesus—filled with the Spirit of wisdom, counsel, and might. He would not judge by appearances or be swayed by human opinion but would bring true justice and righteousness to the earth.
In Isaiah 60:17, God promises, “I will make peace your governor and righteousness your ruler.” Hosea 2:18 envisions a day when even the wild beasts would no longer harm; Micah 4:3 speaks of swords being beaten into plowshares, and nations learning war no more. These images reflect God’s heart for a world free from violence, oppression, and division—a world fully restored under the rule of the Prince of Peace.
This vision of divine peace is illustrated in a remarkable story in 2 Kings 6:16–23. Surrounded by the Syrian army, Elisha’s servant panicked, but the prophet reassured him, “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” When God opened the servant’s eyes, he saw heavenly chariots of fire surrounding them. Instead of calling for destruction, Elisha prayed that the enemy would be struck with blindness, led them to safety, and then fed them a meal. The result? The Syrian troops stopped raiding Israel.
What a profound picture of God’s deeper purpose for His people—to conquer hatred with mercy, and fear with love. This is the same principle Jesus taught centuries later: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). The Messiah’s victory is not through force, but through forgiveness; not through revenge, but through reconciliation.
As followers of Jesus, we are called to reflect His peace in our relationships, workplaces, churches, and homes. We can be agents of peace by choosing understanding over anger, compassion over criticism, and prayer over retaliation. Every time we respond with grace instead of hostility, we make visible the kingdom of the Prince of Peace.
What about your own life right now? In whatever conflict you might be facing—whether it’s a strained relationship, a disagreement, or inner turmoil—how might you embody Christ’s peace? Sometimes, being an agent of peace means speaking gently when others shout, forgiving when others hold grudges, or trusting God when fear threatens to overwhelm you.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, Prince of Peace, teach me to follow Your example of love and mercy. Open my eyes to see that Your power is greater than any force of conflict around me. Fill my heart with Your Spirit so that I may bring peace where there is division, hope where there is despair, and love where there is hatred. Help me to reflect Your character in every situation. In Your holy name I pray, Amen.




