Everyone longs for peace: peace in our homes, peace in our communities and peace in our world. God offers peace. The angels declared to the shepherds on the night of Jesus’ birth:
Luke 2:14
14 Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people He favors!
Christmas is a time to find peace in Christ. The peace that people are looking for is found in the person of Jesus Christ. He is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). He was born in a manger to be the Savior of the world.
When Jesus walked the earth, He proved His authority over the winds and waves of a storm, declaring, “Peace, be still.” The result? Instant calm. On another occasion, He brought peace to a man tormented by demons, casting the demons away from Him.
If you need peace, look to Jesus. He is the Prince of Peace.
Christmas is a time to find peace in your heart. We glorify God when we look to Him for peace. He deserves all the glory and He brings peace to our hearts. Talk to God in prayer, telling Him everything that is weighing you down in your heart and mind. Stop carrying the burdens on your own. He will give you peace.
Sometimes when you seek peace, God will change the circumstances around you, making them more peaceful. But sometimes the circumstances do not change. Even in those situations, you can still know peace deep down in your heart.
Philippians 4:6-7
6 Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Christmas is a time to make peace with others. Are you finding yourself in conflict with a family member, friend, coworker, neighbor or someone else? If so, then do something about it. The Bible instructs us to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). As much as it depends on you, live at peace with all people (Romans 12:18).
The Bible gives us step-by-step instructions on how to resolve conflicts with Christian brothers and sisters (Matthew 18:15-20). Perhaps you need to forgive someone who has wronged you (Matthew 6:12).
Obey the Lord to do what He is calling you to do to make peace with others.
When we pursue peace, we glorify God. God wants to show His favor to everyone. When know Him personally and follow His plan, we receive His blessings and His favor. Let’s be reminded one more time of what the angels told the shepherds on that first Christmas night:
Luke 2:14
14 Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people He favors!