Devotions this week based on Sunday’s Message: Peace is the Heart of Christmas! (LISTEN HERE)
John 14:27 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.
To end the week, let’s hear Jesus’ words and allow them to sink into our hearts.
Here’s the key truth that has resonated in my heart. Does it resonate with you?
If we seek peace in things that are temporal, our peace will be temporary.
If we seek peace from the ONE who is eternal, our peace will be eternal.
Jesus gives us a peace the world cannot give…yet we still are tempted to seek a peace from the world.
We seek peace from our wealth. We seek peace in a stable career. We seek peace from the work of politicians and governing officials. We seek peace through avoidance. We seek peace through alcohol and other addictions. We seek peace by escape and mindless entertainment.
The list goes on, but the peace doesn’t. All the world can do is offer a temporary peace.
Which God knew and chose to do something about.
The Baby born in the manger of Bethlehem was the eternal Son of God. The peace that he brought to earth was the favor of the almighty, eternal, loving God who wanted to give us a peace the world could not give.
Our hearts will still get troubled, worried and afraid. When they do, the source of peace is still the same: Jesus.
The peace he gives allows our hearts to be calm amidst the chaos and challenges of the world around us. Why? Because with Jesus we have our biggest problem of sin covered, we have the one who can do all things on our side, and the one who rules over all doing so for our blessing and benefit.
So as you peer in the manger of Bethlehem, receive God’s gift of peace.
He assures you everything is whole, balanced and right with him. When shalom is secure with the Lord, we truly have a peace that transcends all understanding.
Apply: What changes when you find eternal peace with the gift of Jesus?
Prayer: Lord, thank you for sending Jesus to bring a true, lasting, eternal peace to my heart. AMEN.