It is the Lord who establishes peace for us. He does this be defeating our enemies, forgiving our sins, and bringing changes within the heart of our being. Things that we accomplish are accomplished because of the goodness of God.
Other "lords" ruled over Israel, but they honoured only God. This is how to react in difficult circumstances. We go through times when ungodly forces (whether difficult circumstance, eg sickness, or human powers) seem to hold the upper hand, but in those times we must honour only God. Indeed in doing this we gain victory over the enemy, and we will stand victorious over them.
The Lord brings increase to His people. This is the only plan He ever has for His people: increase.
Verses16 and 17 are an amazing statement of the failure of Israel, and the purpose it was meant to fulfil. Instead of giving birth to salvation for the world, they give birth to wind. They were meant to bring salvation to the earth, as fulfilment of the promise given to Abraham. A key element of Paul's theology is the fulfilment of this promise in Christ.
Yet all was not lost. Although there seemed no way the promise could be fulfilled, fulfilled it would be. God would give life to the dead, but spiritually and physically. There are times of difficulty, and sometimes we just have to accept that we have to go through them, but they will last only for a moment.
Let's take this message to heart for the New Year.
Let's take this message to heart for the New Year.
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