A Freedom Christmas, Week 4: Prince of Peace

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV) And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV) Of the greatness of his government and PEACE there will be no end. Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV) "A Thrill of hope… the weary world rejoices. For yonder breaks… a new and glorious morn." I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. Romans 8:18-25 (NIV) For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. Romans 8:18-25 (NIV) We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Romans 8:18-25 (NIV) Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. Romans 8:18-25 (NIV) For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. Romans 8:18-25 (NIV) And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (NIV) His peace is NOT what you think. I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33 (NIV) God's peace is not an external feeling; it's an internal condition Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) His peace is CONDITIONAL. 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 favor rests." Luke 2:13-14 (NIV) God's peace is not conditional based on your circumstances, but based on your surrender. You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Isaiah 26:3 (NLT) His peace is CLOSER than it seems. Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14 (NIV)  Immanuel = God With Us  The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 (NIV)  His peace has a PRICE. Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory. Romans 5:1-2 (NLT) Christmas is an announcement that God is close… and it's an invitation into his Kingdom of Peace.  Of the greatness of his government and PEACE there will be no end. Isaiah 9:7 (NIV)