The Best Christmas Ever
Week 2
Traditionally, as we are in the advent season, peace is often spoken of as a gift from God. And it is. But did you know that for every believer in Jesus Christ, peace is also a command?

Colossians 3:15 NLT
15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.

I. The Gift
Isaiah 9:6-7 NLT
6 For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen!

John 14:27 NLT
27 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.

II.  God’s Part
As we saw in Colossians 3, God has commanded us to have peace, and to live in peace. In our first point we see that God has provided us with His Gift, Jesus the Prince of Peace. But He doesn’t stop there. God goes on to show us how to have that peace at all times.

a. Jesus has overcome the world
John 16:33 NLT
33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will
have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

b. Jesus provides instruction, a lighter load, and rest
Matthew 11:28-30
28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens,
and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am
humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy
to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

III.  Our Part
a. Put in the work
Psalm 34:14
14 Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it.

b. Follow the instructions
Philippians 4:6-7
6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need,
and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which
exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as
you live in Christ Jesus.

The Best Christmas Ever Will Be Marked by Peace