“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace
among those with whom he is pleased!” Luke 2:14
The peace of the Christian life is from a relationship. Our relationship with God, through Jesus Christ is the basis of us having this peace. The angels announced peace on earth to the shepherds. There is a distinction that the Bible makes in the way the believer experiences God’s peace.
First there is “peace with God.” Romans 5:1 says, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Our rebellion and sin had caused an enmity between us and the just God. But with the death of Jesus Christ for sinners, that enmity has been removed, and we are accepted into God’s family.
Then there is the “peace of God.” We read of that in Philippians 4:7, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This is the peace that goes with us in our living and serving. As we submit to the will of God, God’s peace preserves us in every trial that we face. We have this calmness in our living because of the presence of God’s Holy Spirit dwelling in us.
So, the challenge of God’s peace is in how we enjoy it, how we yield ourselves to the giver of this peace, and how much trust do we put in God in all our experiences. Yes, we pray for peace between nations, but the peace God gives is more. As we think, not only of the promise given at the birth of Christ, but the promise Jesus gives as he is facing his crucifixion.
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33).
So may the peace of Christ dwell with each of you this Advent season.
Pastor Greg
