And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!" Luke 2:12-14
I maintain a pause of my study of 1 Corinthians and my study of 2 Thessalonians and Titus (as part of a men's discipleship group (d-group) at my church) has come to an end. So, during the Advent season, it is appropriate that I lean on DesiringGod.com's Advent devotions where I pick up on Day 6 where John Piper unpacks Luke 2:12-14 and how God gives peace to those with whom He is pleased. Piper first starts by referring us to Hebrews 11:6 where the author writes how "without faith it is impossible to please [God]." By implication peace is only available to believers, those who have faith and trust in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Piper is more pointed as he shares that "Christmas does not bring peace to all." He amplifies this point by referring to John 3:19 and Luke 2:34-35 where some love the darkness (and stay there), and how Jesus was opposed when born. Piper then provides John 1:11-12 and 14:27 where only those who believe and faith become children of God and how peace is given supernaturally only to those who believe and have faith. Paul expands on this in Philippians 4:6-7 where he writes how believers who pray earnestly have a peace that "surpasses all understanding." Piper concludes by sharing that "the key that unlocks the treasure chest of God’s peace is faith in the promises of God," and he refers us to Romans 15:13 where Paul prays for this kind of faith.
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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me and who gives me a peace that surpasses understanding...thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessings...my sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
