Glory to God in the highest [heaven], and on earth peace among men with whom He is well pleased [men of goodwill, of His favor].
Luke 2:14 AMPC
Many times this verse is misinterpreted that this peace among men was supposed to be peace between people groups, as though there would be no more wars or conflict. Some Bible versions have also translated the word for “among” as toward or to which indicates that God’s peace and goodwill was directed toward mankind. While this is slightly more accurate, it isn’t the full picture!
en/among/toward/to: Definition: in, on, at, by, with. Usage: in, on, among. HELPS Word-studies: en (a preposition) – properly, in (inside, within); (figuratively) in the realm (sphere) of, as in the condition (state) in which something operates from the inside (within).
The peace the angels were declaring was not peace among/between mankind. Although God was showing His favor toward humanity by giving HIs peace, the peace wasn’t among people groups—it was given to be within/inside all mankind! This peace is something which operates from the inside!
Therefore, a more accurate translation of this verse would be, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace inside those with whom He is pleased!
The Prince of Peace came to restore to mankind everything that the devil had stolen. Now, we have peace as a fruit of our born-again spirit, but our minds will determine if we see the effects of it in our lives. Although our natural minds tend to look at our circumstances to determine our peace, the peace of God is on the inside of us, not on the outside!
Outside circumstances act as turbulence, just like when on an aircraft. However, when we ride with Jesus, we are lifted up above the storms to a place of peace. If we look down, we can still see that the circumstances exist, and if we were to lower our altitude, we would again feel its effects and begin to be tossed to and fro—which is a very unpleasant sensation!
However, the Word of God tells us that we are actually seated in heavenly places with Jesus!