On Earth Peace and Goodwill Toward Men

Some forces appear to be trying to remove the mention of Jesus Christ’s birth from public life, while focusing more on New Year’s celebrations and other events. We need to have our focal point on truth – Christ and His birth.

“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]

The “glory of the Lord shone around” the shepherds as the angel proclaimed “For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”  [Luke 2:11]

After this, a multitude of the heavenly host were praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” [Luke 2:14]

It is good to meditate and pray over these scriptures, which are a bedrock to us, rather than what is going on in the world.

Some of the many verses concerning anxiety and fear in scripture are:

As the Psalmist wrote, “I sought the LORD, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears.” Psalms 34:4 [NKJV]

Jesus speaking to the disciples said, “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” Matthew 6:31-34 [ESV]

St Paul in his letter to the Philippian Church “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]

St Paul also wrote to Timothy “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” [2 Timothy 1:7]

Always remember what is perhaps God’s greatest promise, which is often repeated: “He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” [Deuteronomy 31:8]

In many parts of life, we need to set boundaries. A good starting point for this is to pursue through prayer the “peace of God that which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Romans 12:18 tells us, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” This can be a testing time for all of us at family and other gatherings where unresolved differences may come to the surface, differing beliefs are voiced, etc.

Through life, we should seek not to over commit ourselves, move away from unhealthy situations/discussions and choose not to engage in conversations that become divisive. “What would Jesus do or say?” is a good question to ask oneself. Remembering not to lean on our strength but His. Also to cast our burdens to Him [1Peter 5:7]

Gratitude redirects our thinking to remind us of our God who loves us and His abundant blessings - Philippians 4:6-7 above. This redirection is away from any thoughts that we have about lack of resources, time and more.

Each day during our time with the Lord, list at least 3 things that you are thankful for. Whatever their size give thanks to the Lord for them. Also, make it a habit to share your thanks with your family or others. A heart of gratitude equips us to face our challenges with joy and trust in God, knowing that His is the battle and the victory.

When anxious/stressed, are we like Martha, Luke 10:38-42 [ESV], as we focus on “doing things”? Do we become “anxious and troubled about many things,” losing sight of what truly matters—the worship of Christ. Mary chose to sit at the feet of Jesus, putting His presence at the top of her to-do list. Jesus affirmed her choice: “But one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:42, ESV)

We should ensure that our schedules keep time to be in His presence through prayer, time in His Word and in worship of Him.

In all that we do, whether or not in the season of Christmas, we should seek to show others our God’s love and grace. Reaching out to those who are grieving, in distress, those where we see/hear their marriages and or families are hurting, fractured or domestic violence of any form is present.

All quoted scripture is from the New King James Version unless otherwise shown.

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The Christian Counsellors Association (CCAA) exists to further the reputation and professional development of Australian counsellors who practice within a framework of Christian values. We provide a valuable resource for members of the public to connect with counsellors in their area who can provide professional counselling services whilst upholding and reflecting the cornerstones of our spirituality.
For details go to: https://ccaa.net.au/

• Kids Helpline is Australia's only free 24/7 confidential and private counselling service specifically for children and young people aged 5 – 25. Call 1800 55 1800.
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