I wish you PEACE in this season and through the coming year.
As I connect with each of you I have come to realize many of you don't have peace right now:
*You have a house full of people driving you crazy
*You don't have money in this economy to even THINK about having a good holiday
*You are missing loved ones that have passed away
*Your heart is breaking over a loss
*You've lost your job or fear you will soon
*People don't treat you as an equal because you are "different"
*You're being bullied or abused
*You or someone you care about has been diagnosed with a sickness
*You have an addiction that you just can't break
*You look in the mirror and you don't like what you see
...the list goes on and on...
What is REAL PEACE? I don't think it's found by having/not having these things. I've gone through most of these things in my life but I continue to have PEACE - REAL PEACE in my life even at my worst times. Why? Because I have a faith in Jesus - the "PRINCE OF PEACE" (Isaiah 9:6). The peace of God "passes all understanding" (Philippians 4:7). Jesus said "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." (John 14: 27).
Peace is internal (not depending on external circumstances) and it requires our participation. We receive true peace when we know that our sin is forgiven and that all is well with our soul (Acts 2: 38, 1 John 1: 7). So, even though these external circumstances will happen, we can have inward peace by "following after the things which make for peace." (Romans 14:19). Peace is available through Jesus Christ alone. Don't be sold a bill of goods by "false peace" (1 Thessalonians 5:3).
REAL PEACE can be yours!
MERRY PEACEFUL CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL!
