Does your heart yearn for peace? Sometimes the hectic pace of Christmas brings about more weariness, conflict, loneliness and feelings of guilt than the joy promised us by the angels at Christ’s birth. Let me share with you two wonderful Christmas versus — “For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us, and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called wonderful counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace,” (Isaiah 9:6), and “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men,” (Luke 2:14). The tumult within your heart and problems of life may leave you longing for rest, for peace. Let me encourage you today, your Savior desires to give you great peace amidst all the pressure of life and of the season, (John 14:27).
In Isaiah 9:6 we are told who Jesus is. He is the wonderful counselor come to give us wisdom. He is always available to us in our need. When we are lonely, He is our companion and friend. When we are discouraged He lifts us up. When we are confused He gives us guidance.
He is the Mighty God who comes to give us help and power, frees us from sin, He shields us from Satan’s attacks. In His power He forgives, heals and delivers us, (Psalm 103:1-5).
He is the Eternal Father. Jesus Christ is both eternal and one with the Father, John 10:30. he and the Father are co-equal, co-eternal and co-existent with one another.
Now, we see He is the Prince of Peace. The Lord Jesus came to give us peace, (John 14:27). In Him we have peace with God through salvation (Romans 5:1) and the peace of God as we lay our burdens upon Him as we pray (Philippians 4:6-7). My friend, you may feel exhausted and overwhelmed when you believe everything depends on you. But Jesus Christ calms your soul as He takes full responsibility for your needs as you trust and obey Him. Be assured that He is able to give you victory in every situation and will never leave or forsake you.
So, if you feel overwhelmed, stop and spend some time with Jesus — your Prince of Peace. We can sit at His feet and experience utter calmness in peace. So rejoice today in the fact that He has everything in control (Psalm 103:19). Thank Him for being your Prince of Peace and giving you true rest. In His presence we have peace.
Dr. David Bouler of Global Faith Ministries, Chattanooga, Tennessee, contributed this column to the Journal Review. He can be reached by email at debouler@aol.com.
