I think it's fair to say that we all want peace in our lives, especially during the holidays. Whether it is with family members or co-workers or simply when we're trying to purchase a last minute gift at the mall or merge onto the freeway. Why is it that peace so often times feel so far away?
In Colossians 3, Paul encourages believers to put on the 'new-self' which includes putting on the peace of Christ and letting it (Christ's peace) rule our hearts. In the bible, the heart is the root of our affections, our attitude and disposition. It guides our thinking and behaving to such a degree that you don't have to decide to "follow your heart" because you already are. Your attitude, disposition, and behavior are all rooted in your heart. And so, whatever is in your heart is going to come out... eventually.
If your life is lived in rebellion, sin, frustration, or fear, there's a good chance that the peace of Christ is not ruling your heart. Not because life isn't hard or frustrating or even fearful at times, but because you've likely chosen a path towards peace that may include Christ, but does not allow Him to rule over your heart. You live what you believe and what you believe lives in your heart. Thus, Paul's admonition to believers to let the peace of Christ rule in your heart!
Well, what was Christ's peace like? For starters, He trusted fully in God the Father even in the midst of the most difficult circumstances - even in His death. But He not only trusted in the Father, He relied upon Him, forsaking the world, the devil, and the temptations of the flesh that He experienced in His earthly ministry and relying upon God's Word. Finally, He gloried in the Father knowing and understanding that God was, and is, working all things out in the universe for the good, particularly for those who love Him and are called according to His purposes.
If you want peace this holiday season, know this - it's available. But real peace; abiding peace; peace beyond one's understanding can only be found in another, the Lord Jesus Christ. It is His peace we must obtain. It is His peace that must rule our hearts. How are we to do that?
First, we must trust God, that thru Jesus Christ our sins are forgiven; that Christ has paid the price in full and has freed us from the tyranny of sin and the consequences of sin, namely God's wrath. Second, we must rely upon God knowing that thru his written Word the living Word (Jesus) gives us the Holy Spirit who renews our hearts and encourages us in the ways of God. Lastly, we must glory in God knowing that whatever we may endure in this life it is not worth comparing with the riches of eternity that await all those who trust in Him. This is the peace of Christ that can rule your heart today if you will turn to Him in repentance and faith.
Look to the Son and know that all will be well no matter what difficulties you may face today. And then, in Him, live life to the full for His glory; for the good of all; and with the peace that Christ gives to all who trust in Him and who give Him rule over their lives. May the peace of Christ rule your heart and may you be blessed this Christmas Season!