There's only one Person who can give us peace in a perilous world and time. He alone knows the future better than we know the present, and will always do what is best for us. This week, we're claiming Isaiah's promise that the Christ of Christmas would be our Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).
What is a presidential candidate to do? Today's Wall Street Journal reports that Americans are displaying more and more doubts about our country's economic engagement with the rest of the world. Amid increasing worries about a recession in 2008, should a candidate continue to emphasize globalization and immigration? Or should we focus on our own problems and retreat from global economic engagement?
There's only one Person who can give us peace in a perilous world and time. He alone knows the future better than we know the present, and will always do what is best for us. This week, we're claiming Isaiah's promise that the Christ of Christmas would be our Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). We've watched Jesus calm the stormy Sea of Galilee and calm the frightened souls of his disciples (Mark 4:35-41). Now let's ask: how can Jesus calm your storm? How can he bring you peace today?
First, invite him to captain your boat. The Prince of Peace will rule only the heart which chooses to crown him. This captain will pilot only the boat which welcomes him. So ask him into your boat. Ask Jesus to forgive your sins and failures, and invite him to live in your life. If you have, turn that life over to him. Make him your master and Captain.
Now, begin each day's voyage with Jesus at the helm. Every day in this fallen world will bring you a storm. You are in a daily spiritual battle against Satan himself and his forces of evil. You will be tested and tempted by the winds and waves of the soul. So go to Jesus first, every day. Turn the day's sailing over to him. Row where he says, when he says. Let him be Lord of your boat, and your day, and your life, first thing every day.
The poet learned this profound truth:
I met God in the morning, when my day was at its best,
And his presence came like sunrise, like a glory to my breast.
All day long his presence lingered--all day long he stayed with me,
And we sailed in perfect calmness o'er sometimes troubled sea.
Other ships were torn and battered--other ships were sore distressed,
But the winds that seemed to drive them brought to us a peace and rest.
So I think I've learned the secret, learned from many a troubled way:
You must seek God in the morning if you want him through the day.