Peace
So what is the root cause of all the evil and chaos that disturbs the peace God wants for this world? Certainly, we as believers, must understand that the world doesn’t know peace and is void of any real peace because of sin. This truth is not taught in almost all of our schools and can even be a subject that is limited in our teaching and preaching in our churches. Our rebellious nature against God, individually and corporately, has permeated into all areas of our culture and relationships. It seems to be even more pronounced with the speed at which images and stories of evil flash on the electronic screens all day and night.
This sinful behavior of mankind was pronounced throughout scripture. Just look at Isaiah 42:22 where we see “There is no peace for the wicked says the Lord.” Now read Proverbs 4:14 -17 and we see those who ignore the instruction and wisdom that God provides for those who seek will be tempted to follow the “path of the wicked” who are so driven to perform evil that “they cannot sleep unless they do evil…..or make someone stumble.” As Alistair Begg said back in 1986, “The way of peace, man in his natural state, he does not know” Mankind will never know true peace, unless they come to know Jehovah Shalom, The Lord of Peace.
How can we continue to believe in the peace that transforms our hearts and minds? We might not have experienced an angelic appearance like the shepherds who were told about the birth of a baby and “… not be afraid to behold, I bring you good news of great joy which shall be for all people.” But we must know that the child that was born in Nazareth to the Virgin Mary and her husband Joseph is Emanuel (God is with us). Also, as Isaiah prophesied in Chapter 9, “For a child will be born to us; son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be Wonderful Counselor; mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.” V.6
We will need to do everything that strives for peace and that will bring glory to God. When we are given the opportunity we need to show the peace that God has given to us, especially to those who are troubled. So, as we gather with friends, family and strangers this holiday season, may we remember the words of Isaiah 26:12, “O LORD, will You establish peace for us. For all that we have accomplished and You have done for us.” We can be thankful for the temporary gifts of Christmas Day………. but the gift of salvation that the sacrifice on the cross of the baby born in Nazareth, is an eternal gift for us who will accept it. Amen
I am going to take a break for a few weeks so hopefully you will have a special time with family and friends to enjoy the peace that surpasses all understanding;