December 20 Personal Peace John 16:33
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
In the midst of this rapidly changing world, I find myself being swept up in the chaos and confusion of the, seemingly, lack of direction and foundations, of our current state of affairs. How easy it is to focus on the temporal while forgetting the eternal. Let me state clearly, one overriding fact: THERE IS NO PEACE IN AND OF THIS WORLD! Where do we turn, in the midst of this crazy, mixed-up environment? We turn to OUR GOD AND HIS PRECIOUS WORD!!! The Bible is filled with verses that can bring peace in the middle of struggles, worries, and fear. If we ask God, He promises us HIS peace "that passes all understanding!” When we take time to step back from the pressures of life and the insanity of our present age and come into the presence of God, He is able to speak promises of hope and comfort over our circumstances. I have used this particular verse (John 16:33) as a comfort and an encourager, throughout my life. The best thing that we can do when we are filled with anxiety and worry is to find a quiet place to pray, read Our Bibles, and listen to encouraging worship music. God wants you to have a life lived to the fullest and that includes being at peace. You experience the peace of God when you come to Him in humility and accept the blessings He wants for you through Jesus Christ. Please do not let the issues of the day, dictate your attitude, your peace nor your service. Focus on what is real and eternal! Living in the midst of this uncertainty requires a growing Faith, an expanding Hope and an active participation in the Love of God! I see the issues, I am aware of the challenges, I understand where this world is headed, I am fully engaged in dealing with whatever comes my way and I am doing all of this under the Power of the Holy Spirit, that guides me and directs me and I DO NOT FEAR the Future, because I KNOW in whom I believe and I am totally convinced that HE will sustain me and Protect me as I navigate through this world into the Eternal Reward that He has Promised to me (and to You!). Lord, help us to stay focused on YOU and to not allow this world to dictate our attitude…We celebrate the CHRIST CHILD TODAY!!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!