| Drop That Weight series- Conclusion ( well, kind of -see* below) Begging January 1 we began a spiritual weight loss program and consequently I have carried a lot of excess “baggage” up to the altar. Those bags have been full of regret, grief, guilt ,worry, stress, and anger. Any one of these “weights” can overwhelm us and take control of our lives. Any one, or more, can rob us from being fully alive and experiencing the abundant life God desires for each of us. Hopefully we have looked at biblical responses to each. Tomorrow I want to call your attention to a promise that will unpack all our excess baggage and free us to live victoriously – PEACE. Mind you this is not just any peace that may be contingent on some outside means of control. No, this is the peace of Christ that says God is greater than any challenge. This peace does not depnd on people, the government or even your family. This Peace is a long lasting peace and depends only upon God. When Christ’s peace is living within you by the power of his Holy Spirit, you can take control of your thoughts before they take control of you. Remember, “the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world” (1 John 4:4 NLT). In a world filled with the weight of anxiety and uncertainty, peace can seem like a distant feeling. But no matter what you’re going through right now, you can always find peace in God through His Word. Come and see, Pastor Rob “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27 NIV |
Getting Ready for Worship: Sunday’s scripture: John 14:25-27 25 “All this I have spoken while still with you.26But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.27Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. Questions to ponder: Of all the baggage we have been talking about (regrets, grief, guilt, worry, stress, anger, etc), which one(s) is the worst peace robbing emotion? How do we search for peace in the world? i.e. vacations, sports, family, reading, entertainment, etc. What is the main difference between the world’s peace and Christ’s peace? |
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