“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill to men” (Luke 2:14).Peace is rare in our world! According to the Personnel Journal, “Less than 8% of the time since the beginning of recorded time has the world been entirely at peace.” Now that’s a depressing thought!
One observer put it this way: “Peace is the brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading.” (Lloyd Cory, Quote Unquote)
So, what happened to the peace promised by the angels on the night of our Savior’s birth? It is not a peace brought about by a treaty between nations. This is a peace given to individuals. It is a deep, inner calm in the hearts of those who know the Prince of Peace, the Lord Jesus Christ, as their Savior.
Knowing the peace of God doesn’t mean living free of stress and pressure! God’s inward peace comes in the midst of trouble. It is what keeps us level when all around us is tilted by turmoil. Theologian A.T. Pierson said, “The peace of God is that eternal calm which lies far too deep in the praying, trusting soul to be reached by any external disturbances.” This is not a peace understood by the world. That’s why there is so little peace in our world! But it is a peace available to every person who seeks it.
Contrary to what some people think, being in ministry does not automatically guarantee a peaceful path! Preparing classes and working with TCE students, along with all the other things you do in ministry can be stressful and exhausting! But as you look back over this past year, can you trace the peace of God in your life, even through the stressful times? And isn't it wonderful to know that His peace goes with us into 2010!
As we enter this most special season, our prayer for you is that the peace of God would rule in your heart, in your home and in your place of ministry. No matter what the year ahead may hold, may our Lord Jesus Christ fill you with His heavenly peace!
One observer put it this way: “Peace is the brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading.” (Lloyd Cory, Quote Unquote)
So, what happened to the peace promised by the angels on the night of our Savior’s birth? It is not a peace brought about by a treaty between nations. This is a peace given to individuals. It is a deep, inner calm in the hearts of those who know the Prince of Peace, the Lord Jesus Christ, as their Savior.
Knowing the peace of God doesn’t mean living free of stress and pressure! God’s inward peace comes in the midst of trouble. It is what keeps us level when all around us is tilted by turmoil. Theologian A.T. Pierson said, “The peace of God is that eternal calm which lies far too deep in the praying, trusting soul to be reached by any external disturbances.” This is not a peace understood by the world. That’s why there is so little peace in our world! But it is a peace available to every person who seeks it.
Contrary to what some people think, being in ministry does not automatically guarantee a peaceful path! Preparing classes and working with TCE students, along with all the other things you do in ministry can be stressful and exhausting! But as you look back over this past year, can you trace the peace of God in your life, even through the stressful times? And isn't it wonderful to know that His peace goes with us into 2010!
As we enter this most special season, our prayer for you is that the peace of God would rule in your heart, in your home and in your place of ministry. No matter what the year ahead may hold, may our Lord Jesus Christ fill you with His heavenly peace!
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