Sunday, December 16, 2007

Teachings from the Pulpit (last weeks edition)

Well, it's Sunday again and I realized that I never posted Teachings from the Pulpit for last week. So here we go... off and running!

Pastor Mike has been going over his Adventus Teachings during the month of December, and last weeks was on Peace. The world defines peace as "everything working together for my own personal good/gain". However, as Christians we need to realize that Jesus did not give us a trouble free world to live in, he gave us the ability to get through the troubles in life with His peace - that may or may not mean you are "feeling good" from it - but you are confident that things will work out for God's best in your life.

Everyone on earth has problems, whether they be emotionally, psychologically, financially, mentally, spiritually, physically - you name it we've got it. However, during the times of unrest God makes us aware of the peace that He gives - "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you" -John 14:27

When Christ came to earth for us, he did not bring a promise of problem free living - Sometimes His peace or the problems of life will actually cause us to stumble and struggle along the way. However, His peace brings us tranquility and strength to get through the stumbling blocks of life. His peace guards us and gives us a sense of confidence and strength in times of struggle and frustration. "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Phil. 4:7

God's peace is not a "warm-fuzzy" feeling - it takes work from both parties to become accepting of the peace of God. Peace is not "no fighting" or "offering self as a doormat" or "getting what you want". Peace is being content with Christ and His best for your life. The Prince of Peace brings: 1. Peace with God, 2. Peace with ourselves, and 3. Peace with others.

I wish you all the peace which only God can give throughout your lives. For it is that peace that far outreaches our struggles and heartaches.

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