The Nativity

Day 1: Embracing God's Miracles

Devotional: As we reflect on the Nativity scene, let's focus on Mary, a young girl chosen by God to carry His son. Mary could have refused when the angel of the Lord came to her. She could have said, no, no way. I'm not doing that. Are you crazy? But she didn't. She embraced God's miracle, even though it was beyond her understanding and brought potential ridicule. This teaches us to be open to God's miracles in our lives, even when they seem impossible or challenging. God had rather do a miracle through us than he had do a miracle for us. Are we ready to say 'yes' to God's plans, even when they seem daunting?

Verse: When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. - Matthew 1:24

Question: Are you open to God's miracles in your life, even when they seem impossible or challenging?

Quote: Mary could have refused when the angel of the Lord came to her. She could have said, no, no way. I'm not doing that. Are you crazy?

Prayer: Lord, help me to embrace Your plans for my life, even when they seem daunting. Give me the courage to say 'yes' to Your miracles and trust in Your divine purpose. Amen.


Day 2: The Power of Obedience

Devotional: Joseph's role in the Nativity story is a powerful example of obedience. Despite the potential for public shame and personal doubt, Joseph did all of these things out of obedience. And then the baby was born and he called his name, Jesus. His actions remind us that obedience to God is not always easy, but it always produces the right results. When we follow God's commands, even in difficult circumstances, we align ourselves with His divine plan and purpose.

Verse: Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. - Matthew 1:19

Question: In what areas of your life is God calling you to be obedient, even when it's difficult?

Quote: Obedience to God is not always easy, but it always produces the right results.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, grant me the strength to be obedient to Your will, even when it is challenging. Help me to trust that Your ways are always right and lead to the best outcomes. Amen.


Day 3: Seeking Jesus Diligently

Devotional: The wise men in the Nativity story teach us the importance of seeking Jesus diligently. They followed the star, setting their lives pointed toward Christ. This journey was not easy, but their determination led them to the Savior. Maybe you need to reset your GPS on Jesus this morning. Be led and guided by where he wants you to go. In our busy lives, it's easy to lose focus. Let's commit to seeking Jesus with the same diligence and determination as the wise men.

Verse: When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. - Matthew 1:24

Question: How can you reset your focus on Jesus and seek Him diligently in your daily life?

Quote: The wise men at the stable teach us to follow the star, to set our GPS on Jesus, to set our lives pointed toward Christ.

Prayer: Lord, help me to seek You diligently every day. Guide my steps and keep my focus on You, no matter the distractions around me. Amen.


Day 4: Glorifying God First

Devotional: The angels' proclamation of 'Glory to God in the highest' before 'peace on earth and goodwill toward men' underscores the importance of glorifying God first. If you wonder why you're always constantly in conflict with people, maybe it's because you haven't put glory to God in the highest first. When we prioritize glorifying God in our lives, we align ourselves with His peace and goodwill. This alignment brings harmony in our relationships and clarity in our purpose.

Verse: Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. - Matthew 1:19

Question: Are you prioritizing glorifying God in your life, and how does this impact your relationships and sense of peace?

Quote: Glory to God in the highest came before peace on earth and goodwill toward men.

Prayer: Father, help me to put You first in all things. May my life glorify You and bring peace and goodwill to those around me. Amen.


Day 5: Jesus at the Center

Devotional: Jesus, laid in a manger, symbolizes the bread of life, accessible to all. Without him at the center, all of these are just random people that have no meaning at all of why they're here. Whenever we place him at the center of our lives, he can heal the brokenness that we are facing. He can fix the chaos that seemingly surrounds us. And he can make it make sense. No matter how far you are away from God, this morning I want to tell you that this special invitation is just for you, that he came just for you. Let's commit to placing Jesus at the center of our lives and experience the healing, peace, and purpose He brings.
Verse: When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. - Matthew 1:24

Question: Is Jesus at the center of your life, and how can you ensure He remains there?

Quote: Whenever we place him at the center of our lives, he can heal the brokenness that we are facing.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I invite You to be at the center of my life. Heal my brokenness, bring peace to my chaos, and give me a sense of purpose. Thank You for coming just for me. Amen.

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