In what ways can we promote peace among those "on whom His favor rests"? Receiving the Angelic Message “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests!” (Luke 2:14) The shepherds heard heaven’s declaration that peace is now possible because the Messiah had come. That same peace belongs to all who have received God’s favor through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8–9). Peace Begins with Reconciliation to God • Romans 5:1 – “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” • Until the sin barrier is removed, genuine peace with others is out of reach. • Our first step in promoting peace is sharing the gospel that reconciles people to God (2 Corinthians 5:18–20). Living Out Peace in Daily Relationships • Forgive quickly and completely (Colossians 3:13). • Speak truth seasoned with grace (Ephesians 4:15, 29). • Choose humility over self-promotion (Philippians 2:3–4). • Refuse to repay evil for evil; pursue what is good for all (1 Thessalonians 5:15). • Be willing to yield personal rights when love calls for it (1 Corinthians 8:13; Romans 14:19). • Seek reconciliation before acts of worship (Matthew 5:23–24). Cultivating a Peacemaking Heart • Delight in God’s Word; it steadies emotions and guides responses (Psalm 119:165). • Pray for those who oppose you (Matthew 5:44). • Allow the Holy Spirit to produce His fruit—“love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22). • Keep short accounts with God through confession (1 John 1:9). Supporting Peace within the Church • Guard unity by honoring one another’s spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4–27). • Address conflict privately first, then with loving witnesses if needed (Matthew 18:15–17). • Practice hospitality; shared tables foster shared hearts (Romans 12:13). • Uphold biblical teaching; truth sets limits that protect true peace (Titus 1:9). Extending Peace to the World • Demonstrate practical compassion—feeding the hungry, visiting the lonely (James 1:27). • Advocate for justice while respecting authority (Micah 6:8; Romans 13:1). • Model integrity in workplaces and communities (1 Peter 2:12). • Support missions that introduce unreached people to the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Sustaining Peace through Hope • Remember Christ “is our peace” who has “destroyed the barrier” (Ephesians 2:14). • Anticipate the day when He returns to establish perfect peace (Revelation 21:3–4). • Until then, “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15). May every step we take reflect the heavenly song: glory to God, peace to those on whom His favor rests. |
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