“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” — Luke 2:14
We hear these words during the Christmas season so often, this promise of peace to God’s children because of our Lord Jesus Christ’s arrival on this world. We hear them, but do we believe them? Do we know how to grasp this peace for ourselves?
We are called to peace in the midst of chaos, even in the midst of this busy, stressful, hectic season and all that we need or want to accomplish. We are called to peace that passes understanding because our foundation is in Christ.
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” — John 14:27
Christ never gave us a command we could not fulfill or accomplish. God is a loving God and does not set us up for failure. As it is written:
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” — Philippians 4:13
The Christian’s peace that passes understanding is rooted in our trust in God. If we trust in the promise that God will always take care of us, and we believe it, then we will not be afraid despite how outward circumstances may shake us. We will know with assurance that God will work all things together for our good. (Rom. 8:28)
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” — Isaiah 26:3
If we trust in God, it is God’s promise that He will keep us in perfect peace, for it is the gift of Christ and received through the Holy Spirit.
“Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.” — John 16:7
“Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” — John 14:17
“If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” — Luke 11:13
When Jesus told the disciples that He would leave, He explained that He would leave them with peace and the Holy Spirit to bring to mind His words and promises. Paul further reminds us that it is in keeping our mind in the Holy Spirit that we receive this promise of peace. When our minds are on the things of this world and our cares, we do not receive the promise.
“For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.” — Romans 8:6
Christ has ascended unto His father, but He is still with us and has sent the Holy Spirit into our hearts to abide with us forever. (John 14:16) May you feel the Spirit’s warmth this Christmas season and enjoy the fruits of peace, regardless of what may happen in your world.
“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:7
— Megan Payne
