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
This morning, I continued with my listening/reading of a Christmas/Advent devotional from John Piper. Today's entry focuses on how God brings peace to those with whom He is pleased - and God is pleased with those who believe and have faith in Him. Piper also discusses the corollary, which is that the peace of God will elude those who don't believe and have faith in Him. In making the case for such statements, Piper provides the following scriptures:
- Hebrews 11:6: without faith, it is impossible to please [God]
- John 3:19 - people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil....lest [their] works should be exposed
- Luke 2:34-35: for many in Israel Jesus is a sign that is opposed
- John 1:11-12: to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God
- John 14:27: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
- Philippians 4:6-7: ...the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
- Romans 15:13: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
I am reminded of Pastor Jared's sermon yesterday (05DEC) where he spoke from Matthew 1 regarding the lineage of Jesus, and how we can be encouraged by acknowledging that (1) God always keeps His promises, (2) God's timing is always perfect, and (3) God's works is not finished.
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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me and who is full of compassion and grace for me - offering a peace that surpasses understanding and so much more! Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of how You do this for me. I am not deserving of such blessings. I have harsh words for others and I worry. 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.
