Receive His Peace
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:13-14
We are all too familiar with the Christmas story this time of year....it has been glamorized in movies, songs, church services and the like that since it's so familiar we have forgotten the true and powerful gift we can be remided we REALLY do have...
Promised Peace
As a believer, you have the Prince of Peace within you! Luke tells us that as God's child, peace is now upon us! We are highly favored because Jesus is within us! So if that is the truth, then why do we feel such a lack of peace so often? And then how do we rest in peace daily? Glad you asked!
What Kind of Peace?
God's peace is a little different than the world's peace....I think the world would define peace as an easy life...but as we both know, this world is full of unexpected trials, tribulations and pains that although we may experience "ease" at times, it doesn't last forever. However, God's peace stems from a restored relationship with Him. And the peace He promises comes from the knowledge that we have a Helper in the Holy Spirit always there for us to guide, comfort, help, provide, and so on.
Receive His Peace
Since peace is a gift from salvation, it's always available to you. So, anytime you are not feeling "at peace," do this:
1. Pause--it's our culture to get going so busy that we forget God is with us, within us, and Lord over all.
2. Tell Him--unload whatever burden you are carrying and let Jesus have it. Tell him what's bothering you, ask him for any wisdom or guidance, and then trust he will handle the situation, problem, relationship. If time allows, listen to a praise and worship song to realign your heart to His.
3. Think on His Word--after unloading the "thing" you can now hold on to something else....have a promise from scripture to carry with you for the rest of the day so if any other thoughts that might want to make you worry pop up, you can think on the promise instead of the worry.
We have 18 days left until Christmas...let's walk truly as a victorious, joy filled and overflowing with peace child of God. It's the way we can shine brightly as the Light of the World has come to give the gift of salvation to all men.
XO,
Ashley
