At Christmas time we reflect on God coming to find us. One of the consequences of Him visiting humanity is that He brought a peace encounter and the peace that can be found spiritually, physically and emotionally.
Peace comes to us in three places potentially
1.From Outside
God came to find us. His vision was and is to restore His creation through the life giving sacrifice of one man, Jesus Christ His son. He is only person who has lived without sin as part of His life Hebrews10: 1-18 and yet was tempted in every way Hebrews 4:15. As we opt into the opportunity given us by Jesus Christ we surrender our life past, present and future into Gods hand embracing His hand of peace to us from the outside to the in.
2.On the Inside
When we make peace with God we have access to peace for our hearts and minds. Jesus explained to His followers that He was leaving them a gift of peace in
John 14:27“Peace that I give to you and it’s a peace that the world doesn’t understand “.
Elsewhere in scripture we are advised to “let the peace of God rule your heart “ implying that we have that ability as Jesus promised His followers Colossians 3:15. This is a great gift to make the most of especially when we live in a busy, stressful and demanding context.
3.Towards Others
Once we accept the gift of peace of Jesus we are able to put this incredible ability to work. We ourselves become peacemakers, resolving conflict is one of the greatest needs in the world today and we have the ability to break through and bring peace to people. This is the requirement of every follower of Jesus. It is not just believing in Him but living as He did that makes the difference to others in the world.
Isaiah 52:7 How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”
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Matthew 5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God”. |
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Finally
This Christmas let us find restored hope in a saviour who was born to die to give everlasting life. And let us find reassurance from the God who is devoted to live His children us
Let us share this amazing news to those with out peace in their lives.
“As we draw close to God He will draw close to you” James 4:8
Your spiritual life 