Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 'Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!'

-Luke 2:8-14

What do you hope 2022 brings?

Most of us realize that a pain-free world is not possible.

What we truly want is PEACE.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

-Philippians 4:6-7

Peace that passes all understanding? What is that? How does it come?

When we come close to Jesus, the automatic result is peace.

You can choose to have moments of peace and courage. Or you can live with a posture of courage and peace.

How? By constantly drawing near to God.

1. Where “fellowship” becomes primary.

2. Where prayer becomes purposeful.

3. Where worship becomes paramount.

2022 will bring more Unpredictable challenges!

Luke 2 tells us that there is a way to live that brings great confidence and peace. More importantly, there is a way to live where God’s favor constantly rests upon us.

'Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!'

-Luke 2:14

Goodwill means: Hebrew: Ratsohn Greek: Eudokia Translated: Pleasure—Good pleasure, liking, approval, goodwill.

Remember me, Lord, when you show favor to your people, come to my aid when you save them, that I may enjoy the prosperity of your chosen ones, that I may share in the joy of your nation and join your inheritance in giving praise.

-Psalm 106:4-5

David says to God:

1. Don’t forget me!

2. Come to my aide!

3. Be on my side!

4. Show me your favor!

Question is:

How can I get God on my side?

How can I get Him in my corner?

How can I draw His face to smile upon me?

If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!

-Psalm 106:4-5

Who were they who heard and rebelled? Were they not all those Moses led out of Egypt? And with whom was he angry for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies perished in the wilderness? And to whom did God swear that they would never enter his rest if not to those who disobeyed? So we see that they were not able to enter, because of their unbelief.

-Hebrews 3:16-19

That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and if you believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, then you will be saved.

-Romans 10:9

If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love.

-John 15:10

Jesus said to her, 'Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?'

-John 11:40

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

-2 Chronicles 7:14

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

-Luke 2:14

Salvation is a gift from God not based upon merit. Where day to day life is concerned, God’s favor comes to those on whom He is well-pleased.

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among people with whom He is pleased.

-Luke 2:14 (NASB)

You cannot live in a posture of disobedience and distraction and expect the favor of God to shine upon you.

How has the Holy Spirit spoken to you during this message?

What changes do you need to make to ensure God’s goodwill comes into every area of your life?

Make a Decision