“Delivered from Discord” – Ian France – 10.12.2023
Week 2 – Peace
Spend some time every day during Advent considering the Word of God and your relationship with Him.
Open your mind and heart as you read the passages of Scripture aloud and then again quietly to yourself. Listen for God’s word to you.
Spend some time in worship – listen to a praise song, read a poem or a psalm of praise.
Day 1 The Promise
Isaiah 9:6-7a 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 Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.
In this time of conflict, how can you pray for peace in the world, especially for peace in Israel as we are commanded to do (Psalm 122:6)? What about peace in your own relationships? Where would you like God to grant peace – personally and globally? Spend some time today speaking to Him about these issues.
Pray: Abba, as you have commanded us I pray for the peace of Jerusalem. May Your will be done for Your Holy City. I pray for peace wherever there is conflict; for both sides of the situation Lord my heart aches especially for the situation/s in (name it/them …). And Abba I pray for my relationship with (name the people concerned) where you know I struggle to be at peace. Lord may You move in power in each of these situations and grant us Your peace. Amen
Day 2 The Announcement
Luke 2:13-14 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests.”
Praise God today and give Him the glory for all the blessings you have received in your life at this time. If you can, make a list of them. Where are you aware of God’s peace in your soul? Where do you feel you need peace? Speak to God about these things and ask Him to bless you with His peace today.
Pray: Abba, thank You for all the blessings with which You have showered me in recent days. May I be aware of each blessing and give You all the glory! Yet even so, Abba, there are areas of my life where I do not have peace, sometimes as a result of what I have done that was wrong, and sometimes because of the things I should do, but am resisting. Abba, forgive me. Please help me to come back into line with Your will – and so know Your peace. Amen
Day 3 Peace for ever in all circumstances
2 Thessalonians 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.
Where are you aware of situations in your own circle that lack peace; perhaps a friend’s marriage; or conflict in a work situation; or your own close relationships? Speak to God about these situations today. Name them before Him. Ask Him for guidance as to how you can be a peacemaker for Him in these issues.
Pray: Abba, You know the situations I have brought before You today. If You can use me to help bring peace in any one of them, please show me what to do and guide me that I may follow Your lead and be an instrument of Your peace. Amen.
Day 4 Peace no matter what
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
How would being filled with joy and peace fit into your current life situation? What difference would it make? Do you trust God enough to believe He will do this for you in response to Paul’s prayer? Why/why not? Speak to God about your trust level and open your heart, mind and spirit to receive His joy and His peace so you overflow in the hope only He can give.
Pray: Abba, You know the situations in my life that worry me or make me sad. Abba, please help me to open my heart, mind and spirit to Your Holy Spirit right now to receive the hope that You have ready for me, that I may know Your peace and joy today and in the days ahead. Amen.
Day 5 Beyond understanding
Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Spend some time alone, sitting in silence, and let the peace of God soak into your heart, mind and spirit. May you be warmed by God’s presence, and comforted by His peace.
Pray: Abba, thank You for the peace You offer to me. When life is hard, please remind me that You are the Provider of peace and help me to turn to You at such times. May the peace that fills me overflow to those around me. May I be Your peacemaker. Amen.
Verse 2 from the poem Arrival
There’s a current of excitement running right around the world.
Trumpets are being polished and banners being unfurled.
Shepherds leave their homesteads and travel weary miles.
Could it all be centred round a tiny little Child?
Recent Comments