A Very Married Christmas: Couples Advent DevotionalSample

PEACE

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased,” the angels sang as they announced the birth of Jesus, the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:7). And we repeat these Christmas carols each season, words of hope and peace. Yet, there is no peace on earth. The world around us continues on in division and disunity. Wars and conflicts rage. Where is the peace of Christ?

We can find one clue in John 14:27, where Jesus’ words are recorded: “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give.” We see that while the world cannot give peace, Jesus can. He then instructs his disciples, “So don’t be troubled or afraid.” The ESV translation says, “Let not your hearts be troubled.” Jesus calls us not to give trouble permission over our hearts but instead to receive his gift of peace. What would that look like for you today? How can you choose peace and not to let your heart be troubled?

Consider yesterday’s scriptures and the hope we have in Christ. Does meditating on your hope in Jesus help you find peace? Knowing He is in control helps us let go and respond with joyful gratitude.

Questions to Discuss Together:

• What is one thing that has been troubling your mind this week?
• Is there anything I can do to help?
• What would help you release that to God?

Pray together:

Lord, we want to believe your Word and that you intend to give us peace. Help us let go of the things we are holding onto that disrupt our peace and trust that you are truly in control. Help us choose to look to you instead of our circumstances to find peace of mind and recognize where you are at work around us.