Introduction
“Go in peace” is a common phrase, particularly in religious contexts, that generally means to depart with a sense of tranquility, well-being, and a blessing. It signifies a wish for the person leaving to experience peace, both internally and externally, and often implies a sense of being right with God.
The phrase “Go in peace” is not merely a polite dismissal. In the biblical context, it often signifies a blessing, an affirmation of faith, or a transition into a state of wholeness and well-being. It can also mean “Go into peace,” signifying that the person is entering into the peace that Jesus offers, or being freed from their affliction.
1 Samuel 1:17 describes Eli the priest’s response to Hannah’s fervent prayer. He initially misinterprets her silent, intense prayer as drunkenness, but upon realizing her sincerity and distress, he offers a blessing. He tells her to “go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant your petition”. This signifies Eli’s blessing and affirmation of Hannah’s request, expressing hope that God will answer her prayer.
Who is Hannah?
- She was a barren woman: Exo 23:26 There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfil. Deu 7:14 Thou shalt be blessed above all people: there shall not be male or female barren among you, or among your cattle.
- She was a sorrowful woman: I Sam.1:15, Isa 35:10 And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. Isa 51:11 Therefore the redeemed of the LORD shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away.
- She was a woman of prayers: 1 Sam. 1:10, Isa 22:22 And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open Mat 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
- She was a woman of faith: 1 Sam. 1:18-19, Heb 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen
Why must you Go in Peace?
- God is not a liar: Num 23:19 God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
- God has you in his agenda: Psa 115:12 The LORD hath been mindful of us: he will bless us; he will bless the house of Israel; he will bless the house of Aaron.
- He has a good plan for you: Jer 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
- He will never forget you: Heb 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Isa 49:15 Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.
Conclusion
The Lord instructed me to do something significant this morning, that I should lay my hand on individuals and pronounce “ May the Lord bless you and answer all your prayers”