Calm vs Chaos

A 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association found that 89% of U.S. adults feel stressed during the holiday season, with 41% reporting higher stress levels compared to other times of the year. This stress can lead to physical illness, depression, anxiety, and substance misuse.

Why do we feel this way?

too much work

too much pressure

too many parties

too many programs

too many gifts to wrap

“Corrie ten Boom once said that if the devil can’t make you sin, he’ll make you busy. There’s truth in that. Both sin and busyness have the exact same effect—they cut off your connection to God, to other people, and even to your own soul.”

-John Mark Comer

Jesus wants to Turn your vision of Christmas Upside down.

John 10:10

The New International Version (Chapter 10)

I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Shalom/Eirene/Peace

•Complete or Whole

•Harmony or Soundness

1 Corinthians

The New International Version (Chapter 14)

For God is not a God of disorder but of peace

God doesn’t desire or develop chaos in our lives.

The New International Version (Chapter 9)

6 For to us a child is born,

to us a son is given,

and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

7 Of the greatness of his government and peace

there will be no end.

Isaiah

The New International Version (Chapter 7)

14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin h will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. j

Peace is not dependent upon your plans, preferences, or predicaments. True peace is dependent on the presence of God.

Ephesians

The New International Version (Chapter 2)

14 For he himself is our peace,

John

The New International Version (Chapter 14)

26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Surrender

Matthew

The New International Version (Chapter 9)

24 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. 25 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self?

When life feels chaotic, surrender center yourself on Christ.

Slow-Down

Psalm

The New International Version (Psalm 46)

Be still, and know that I am God;

Our peace is tied to our willingness to be present with God and others.

Submit

Matthew

The New International Version (Chapter 11)

28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Submission to Jesus will produce shalom in your life.