The shepherds - Luke 2:8-18 - Part 3

  1.             He came for the outcast
  2.             He came for the desperate.
  3.             Now He comes for the fearful

 Another thing, the Bible says about the shepherd was that they were terrified. What else do you do, when all of a sudden a host of angels appear, a bright light shines around?  Of course anyone would be frighten.

But there are other reasons why people are afraid. Fear of terrorism, of death, of discrimination, of hunger, fear of death, fear of sickness, fear of the future fear of almost anything.   

But the angel says, "Don't be afraid". This is because Jesus brings peace to this earth. Isn't it ironic that Jesus was born in a place where there is so much fear today?  Look at the Middle East. Its the bedrock of fear. Yet the messages the same. Only Jesus can set this world free from fear. 

Prophet Isaiah calls Him the "Prince of Peace". The whole world can be in turmoil, but when we have Jesus in our lives, we can be at peace and be in peace, because He is the Prince of Peace. 

Someone said that there are 365 verses in the Bible with the words "Fear Not", Presumably one for every day in the year.

He is called Emmanuel. It means God with us. That' the only thing that matter. I am reminded of Joseph who went through so many fears, discouragements in His life. But in every situation God was with him. And that made the difference. Wherever I go, I always pray, "God I want you to be with me". When God is with us, who or what can be against us.

2017 may bring many uncertainties. People are predicting there is going to be an economic crisis in the coming year. Not sure what the new President in the US will do. Bu the Word of God assures us this day, "Fear Not". Do not be afraid because God has sent a Savior to us — Jesus Christ the Lord. He is the One who will:

•          Never leave us or forsake us.
•          Supply all our needs according to his riches in glory.
•         Add to us all the things we need as we seek him and his Kingdom.

The devil destroys people with fear but Jesus was born so that you and I can live in peace and with peace. Phi 4:7 - And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus during this Christmas season.

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