Explores the divine peace promised in Isaiah 9:6-7, and how to pursue, personify, and prevail in this peace amidst life's challenges.
Good morning, beloved family. It gives me great joy to stand before you today, to share the word of God and to delve into the deep riches of His wisdom. Today, we are gathered here not by chance, but by divine appointment. We are here to unravel the truth of God's peace, a peace that surpasses all human understanding, a peace that is available to each one of us, regardless of our circumstances.
Our focus today is Isaiah 9:6-7, a passage that is both a prophecy and a promise, a testament to the divine peace that is found in the person of Jesus Christ. The prophet Isaiah, inspired by the Holy Spirit, wrote:
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this."
This is a declaration of the coming of our Lord Jesus, the Prince of Peace. It is a promise of a peace that is not of this world, a peace that is eternal and unshakeable. It is a peace that establishes and upholds justice and righteousness, a peace that is accomplished by the zeal of the Lord Almighty.
How we respond: When we face problems, our natural reaction is often to worry and to try to solve them on our own. We may lose sleep over them, become anxious, or even fall into despair. But the Bible tells us that there is a better way. In Philippians 4:6-7, the apostle Paul writes, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
How to pursue peace in problems: Instead of worrying, we are to pray. Instead of trying to solve our problems on our own, we are to present them to God. Instead of focusing on our problems, we are to give thanks for what God has done and what He will do. And when we do this, the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds.
Prayer: It’s not just a religious ritual or a last resort when all else fails. It is a powerful tool that God has given us to communicate with Him, to express our needs and desires, and to seek His guidance and help. Through prayer, we acknowledge that we are not in control, but God is. We admit that we are not self-sufficient, but God is. We confess that we are not all-knowing, but God is. And this humble dependence on God brings peace.
Thanksgiving: This is also a key to experiencing God's peace. When we give thanks, we shift our focus from our problems to God's goodness. We remember His faithfulness in the past, which gives us confidence in His promises for the future. We acknowledge His sovereignty, which assures us that nothing happens outside of His control. And this attitude of gratitude brings peace.
Presenting our requests to God: This is not about convincing Him to do what we want. It is about aligning our will with His. It is about seeking His kingdom and His righteousness above all else. It is about trusting that He knows what is best for us and that He will provide it in His perfect timing. And this trust in God brings peace.
The peace of God is not a passive state of inactivity or resignation: It is an active pursuit of God's presence, promises, and purposes. It is a determined choice to trust in God, to rely on His strength, to rest in His sovereignty, and to rejoice in His goodness, regardless of our circumstances. And this pursuit of God brings peace.
The book of Isaiah: The prophet gives us a glimpse into the character of Jesus by referring to Him as the Prince of Peace ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO
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