Perfect Peace

The holidays are upon us and most people would scoff at the idea of finding peace, let alone finding perfect peace. Studies show that depression and suicide increase during this supposed joyous season. The bar has been set so high and demands are so extreme that the holidays have become just one more excuse for stress and anxiety to rule our lives. Celebrating the birth of Jesus is frequently overshadowed by shopping, finances and other holiday-related issues.

Ironically, the whole reason for the season is actually a peace offering. “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6.

Jesus warns us that we will face difficulties, but encourages us to remain peaceful in John 16:33, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

So how do we maintain peace in our lives when the world around us seems to be crumbling?

1. Pray – Although God already knows of your needs before you ask, share your concerns with Him and rest assured that He’s got your back. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7.

2. Give God thanks and praise – No matter how dismal our situation seems, thanking God for all the blessings in our lives and focusing on the positives will diminish our problems and allow Him to continue blessing us. Keep in mind that grumbling and complaining put a kink in the plumb line of blessings. “I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness; I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High.” Psalm 7:17

3. Keep the faith – Faith is having confidence or trust in something that we cannot prove, so when we cannot see a reasonable result, we must have faith that God is working on our behalf. ”You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3.

While we were not put on this earth to live perfect lives or to skirt every oncoming obstacle, we can maintain perfect peace because we know that God will use every situation we endure to work together for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. “Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble.” Psalm 119:165

Merry Christmas and “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” Luke 2:14.