12-08-2024
Philippians 1: 3 – 11
1 Samuel 21: 1 – 15
God’s Faithful Plan and Sustaining Peace
Join us this week as we reflect on having peace knowing that God has a plan for us.
God’s Faithful Plan and Sustaining Peace
On this second Sunday of Advent, we light the candle of peace, reminding us of the sustaining peace found in God’s faithful plan. The season of Advent is about preparation—not just for holiday festivities, but for Christ’s presence in our hearts and lives. In Philippians 1:3-11, Paul expresses his gratitude and joy for the fellowship of believers. He encourages us to embrace active participation in God’s work, to pray for others with joy, and to trust that the good work God has begun in us will be completed. Paul reminds us that as we grow in love, knowledge, and discernment, we can bear the fruits of righteousness and live lives that glorify God. This is a call to be thankful, to support others, and to cultivate a deeper understanding of God’s truth.
In 1 Samuel 21:1-15, we see David fleeing from Saul, faced with fear and uncertainty. While David’s faith wavers and he takes matters into his own hands, God’s plan for him remains steadfast. This passage serves as a reminder that we can lose our peace when we let fear and emotions control us. David’s struggle reflects our own challenges in fully trusting God’s plan. Despite our moments of doubt, God’s faithfulness never falters. When we root ourselves in Scripture, seek knowledge, and grow in discernment, we are better prepared to face life’s trials with God’s peace in our hearts.
This Advent season, let us prepare not just our homes but our hearts. Let us step away from the noise of societal expectations and holiday pressures to embrace the peace that comes from God’s faithful plan. Through gratitude, prayer, and active participation in God’s work, we can reflect Christ’s love to others and find true peace in knowing that God’s plan for us is good and righteous.
Challenge Statement
This week, commit to embracing God’s peace by trusting His plan, actively praying for others, and offering your time and presence to those who need you most.
Trust in God’s Ongoing Work in You
In Philippians 1:6, Paul reminds us that God, who began a good work in us, will see it through to completion. Even during times of uncertainty and struggle, we can have confidence and peace knowing that God’s plan for us is faithful and ongoing. We are called to trust in His timing and purpose, believing that His work in us will be perfected.
Active Preparation and Participation in God’s Plan
Advent calls us to prepare our hearts, not just for Christmas but for the ongoing work of Christ in our lives. Paul emphasizes the importance of active participation in the gospel through prayer, love, and discernment (Philippians 1:9-10). We are not meant to be passive bystanders but active agents of God’s love, spreading His message and supporting others in their spiritual walk.
Peace Comes from Relying on God, Not Fear
In 1 Samuel 21, David’s fear led him to take matters into his own hands, which resulted in deceit and distress. When we allow fear and emotions to take control, we lose our peace. True peace comes from surrendering our plans to God, rooting ourselves in His Word, and trusting that He is in control, even in difficult circumstances.