Peace | Christmas at DC | Pastor Johnny Mitcham
Christmas at DC
PEACE
The people who are now living in darkness will see a great light. They are now living in a very dark land. But a light will shine on them. Isaiah 9:2 NIRV
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 ESV
Soul Tattoo: True peace isn’t found in the absence of problems, but in the presence of Jesus.
“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.” (John 14:27 ESV)
Why People Don’t Experience the Peace of Jesus
1. Misplaced Priorities
You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. (Isaiah 26:3 ESV)
“Our hearts are restless until they find their rest in You.” Augustine of Hippo
2. Unresolved Sin
Psalm 32:3-4 about how unconfessed sin caused him to feel weak and burdened. Peace begins with repentance.
3. Fear and Anxiety
“Do not be afraid” (Matthew 14:27 ESV, John 14:1ESV).
“Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow; it empties today of its strength.” Corrie ten Boom
4. Lack of Faith in God’s Sovereignty
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28 ESV)
5. Neglect of Prayer and the Word
“do not be anxious about anything, 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 your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 ESV)
“A little faith will bring your soul to heaven, but a lot of faith will bring heaven to your soul.” D.L. Moody
Five Practical Action Steps to Experience Christ’s Peace
1. Center Your Heart on Christ
“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33
2. Confess and Repent
Scripture: – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9
3. Surrender Your Worries to God
“Cast all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 ESV)
4. Embrace a Life of Gratitude
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV)
5. Cultivate Quietness and Prayer
“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10 ESV)
For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility (Ephesians 2:14 ESV)