Preparing Your Heart for the True Meaning of Christmas
As the holiday season approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of gift-giving, decorating, and socializing. But amidst all the chaos, it’s essential to remember the true reason for the season: celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
Making Room for the King
Take a moment to reflect on the Christmas story, as told in Luke 2:1-20. Ask yourself: What does it say about God’s ways and my response? What does God want to reveal to me through this story?
A City Prepared for the Lord
In Luke 2:1-5, Jesus comes to a city. How would Jesus like to come to your city? What changes would you need to make to welcome Him fully?
Surrendering to God’s Timing
Compare Luke 2:6 with Galatians 4:4-5, which describes the Christmas story from Paul’s perspective. What does this say about God’s timing? What do you need to surrender to His timing, Lord?
The Humility of Jesus
In Luke 2:7, we’re reminded that Jesus was born in a humble stable. Where are your “no vacancy” signs? Where do you need to see the glory of the Lord shine in your regular routine?
Fear Not, Rejoice!
Luke 2:10 reminds us to fear not and rejoice, no matter what. How is this real for you? Ask yourself: What does it mean to have joy in the midst of chaos?
The Savior-Babe
Meditate on the third verse of “Silent Night.” How personal is the phrase “born for you”? Have you seen Jesus as Savior-babe as well as Christ the Lord?
Praising God as a Lifestyle
In Luke 2:13, we’re encouraged to praise God as a lifestyle. How can you make praising God a part of your daily routine?
A World Vision
Luke 2:14 reminds us of the world vision in the Christmas story. What will it take for the glory of God to be seen in all the earth? What will it take for everything in your life to say “Glory in the highest”?
Instant Obedience
The shepherds saw Jesus because they obeyed immediately (Luke 2:15,16a). What has God shown you lately that calls for instant obedience?
Surrendered Expectations
In Luke 2:16, we’re reminded that the King of the universe came into this world in a humble stable! What expectations of how God is working do you need to surrender?
A Mary Heart
Do you have a “Mary heart” that ponders God’s ways in your heart? Let God prepare your heart with fresh joy, anticipation, renewed peace, vision… with whatever you need most.
Receiving Your King
As you sing “Joy to the World” this season, really hear the words. Don’t let the familiarity of this great carol lull you into neutral. Receive your King who has the right to rule in the hardest circumstances of your life. Submit, bow your knee to Him, and say, “Yes, King of my life, I prepare You room and receive You. Reign in the midst of the world’s temporary insanity of the season and beyond. Rule in my heart and my family with truth, grace, righteousness, wondrous love, and glory.”
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