Peace is a basic need for livelihoods, institutions and relationship. Without peace homes, offices, businesses, Churches and nations would be in state of utter chaos. “There can be no sustainable development without peace, and no peace without sustainable development”. This is one of the most memorable phrases in the Preamble of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. BETTTY AMUKPO engages some children on the importance of peace.
‘Peace is one of the most important things we need in our everyday life’
Peace is the state of being calm and quiet. Peace is very important to us because without peace there will be no security or safety in the world. The presence of peace in society enables prosperity and progress. The places we go to are safe because there are peacemakers who settle problems. Peace is one of the most important things we need in our everyday life. God made peace because that’s what He wants from us so we can be able to settle disagreements and disaffections. No wonder the word of God states that: “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”. Philippians 4: 7 In Romans 15:13 the Bible states that “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Jesus Himself understood the importance of peace, and that is why He preached a lot about peace. Jesus did not only preach about peace, but He gave His peace to us as we can see in John 14:27; “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Therefore the importance of peace cannot be over-emphasised.
• Blossom Somtochukwu Akalezi

‘Peace is a necessity in all circumstances’
Matthew 5:9 says “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Is peace important? Yes. Without peace, it will be impossible to live as one, because there will be lack of trust, co-operation, love, growth and all these will give rise to hatred, malice, strife, discrimination and ultimately death. Romans 13:18 urges, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” In all, peace is a necessity in all circumstances.
• Victoria Okefe

‘A peaceful heart is needed for eration in the society’ God to do His work in us’
Yes, peace is important in our lives. Peace is much related to gaining strength, being close to the Lord and being sanctified. A peaceful heart is needed for God to do His work in us. Psalm 4:8 says: I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. The Lord blesses His people with peace. So, without peace we can do nothing.
• Umennadi Francis Chibunna

‘Peace is the love or harmony that connects two or more people’
Peace is the love or harmony that connects two or more people or two things together. The Bible also says in the 2 Chronicles14-6:7, “He built fortifications for the cities of Judah during this time and for several years there was no war because the Lord gave them peace”. Also in John 20:21, Jesus said to them again “Peace be with you as the Father sent me so I send you”.
• Agbo Josephine Chidalu

‘Peace thrives where there is justice, equity and fairness’
Peace means being in harmony. It thrives where there is justice, equity and fairness. In Matthew 5:9 it is written, “Blessed are the peace makers for they shall be called children of God.” God’s children love one another, without conflicts or wars, giving rise to socioeconomic development. Therefore, peace is very important.
• Bibiana Madudihe

‘Without peace, it will not be possible to achieve the desired level of trust and eration in the society’
Yes, peace is very important especially for Christians. Peace in the dictionary means freedom from disturbance/ tranquility or a state in which there is no war or a war ended. The concept of peace in the Bible, the Old Testament refers to wholeness, total health and total welfare. It covers the sum total of God’s blessing to the covenant community. Peace is important because without peace, it will not be possible to achieve the level of trust and cooperation in the society, or adapt to change in the environment.
• Annabel Oti

‘Without peace, we can’t live a harmonious life’
Peace is very important because it makes us live without fear. It also makes us to understand the words of the Lord with ease. Without peace, we can’t live a harmonious life. It’s stated in the book of Isaiah 26:12, “Lord, you establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished, you have done for us.” This verse also informs us of how God cherishes peace.
• Gideon Eyinade

‘Where there is no peace, people live in fear, and conflict becomes inevitable’
Peace is the freedom from disturbance, hostility and violence. The book of Galatians 5:22-23 says that peace is knowing that the Lord of the universe is by your side and resting. That one can comfortably sit knowing that God is next to his or her side no matter what the environment is saying. In my opinion peace is important, because without peace no nation or individual can move forward, meaning that peace is that thing that allows us to progress. In a situation where you don’t have peace of mind, you will not be able to plan well; you’ll end up acting on impulse. Thessalonians 3:16 states “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” Where there is no peace, people live in fear, and conflict becomes inevitable. We are encouraged to make peace with one another and always live in peace.
• Ebubechukwu Chinedu

‘Peace is important because it is one of the twelve fruits of the Holy Spirit’
Peace is important because it is one of the twelve fruits of the Holy Spirit. Peace is also synonymous with Jesus Christ and this is why he is called Prince of Peace. Peace attracts lots of blessings from God. In James 3:18, Christ said “And Goodness is the harvest that is produced from the seed that peace makers plant in peace. Isaiah 26:3 also says, “You Lord gives perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm.” These are few of the reasons why we should embrace peace with open arms.
• Theresa Obhakhan
