Things That Threaten The Peace Saints Have

I. Introduction: Think about our lesson about peace through justification (Romans 5:1-4)…

A. We saints have an advantage because of our relationship with God (I Corinthians 14:33; cf. Romans 1:7 and Colossians 1:2).

1. A peace that comes through Christ (Acts 10:36).
2. A peace that the world cannot offer (John 14:27; cf. John 14:1-3).

1. We like to focus on sins that come through outside influences. That’s often true (I Corinthians 15:33). However, it takes something within us for sin to materialize (James 1:13-16).
2. Consider the point shown in how the pursuit of material gain causes one to pierce himself or herself through with many sorrows (I Timothy 6:6-10).
3. In this lesson, we will focus on things we do to ourselves that rob us of the peace we should cling to so desperately. This will just be a springboard lesson for your own thoughts. In no way is this to be taken as a complete list of anything.

1. Sin weighs heavily upon the GOOD conscience when it is hidden rather than addressed (Psalms 38:1-8).
2. True relief comes when we stop covering our sins and seek mercy from God (Proverbs 28:13 and I John 1:7-2:2).

1. Even in severe trials, Paul maintained proper perspective concerning suffering (II Corinthians 4:8-10; II Corinthians 4:17-18).
2. We can address anxiety with proper focus (Galatians 5:24 and Philippians 4:6-8).
3. Properly distinguishing between the temporary and the eternal helps keep anxieties in perspective (James 4:14 and Jude 1:21).

1. Think about those who want to turn back (Luke 9:57-62) and how that mindset is shown through Demas (II Timothy 4:10).
2. So, we must learn from Jesus the importance of enduring with proper focus (Hebrews 12:1-3; cf. II Timothy 2:1-4).