Devotion
The Start of Something New
Chipo Biti
On this day, a day that may have seemed like a regular day to other people, Christ was born. He was born in a manger, a birthplace that would not be fitting for a King. But this was the start of something great - something new. The Savior had finally come to the earth and all the heavens were celebrating. An angel appeared to shepherds who were minding their flocks in the field, carrying on with their daily lives. The angel came to announce the great thing which had happened - the Savior had been born. The angel described where they would find the child and they left immediately.
When they reached the stable, in Bethlehem, and they shared what they had experienced. The shepherds were filled with joy to see that the word of the Lord that they had been given was true. They saw this moment as a momentous occasion; they did not take it lightly. When they finished their visit, the shepherds left, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard.
This day was a major day for the world, even if they did not know it, because God's redemption plan was finally in motion. His redemption plan being Jesus Christ, who had come to fulfill the law, die for our sins, and raise from the dead. He completed all His tasks, setting us free from the power of sin and the bondage of the enemy. All of this started from this small birth in a manger, that may have appeared to be an insignificant event but it was not.
Prayer
We still celebrate this day today because of what it signified. The birth of a new era. Salvation surely did come to the earth and we, God's children, are all recipients of this precious gift. Now, it is our responsibility to pass on this good news to all who will hear, hoping that they will give their lives to Christ as well.
Devotion
Give Good Example
Frances Taylor
If we ever needed a reminder of how important it is to practice what we preach, this is it. Not only are we encouraged to help others, but we are also warned about giving bad example or leading others, particularly children, away from the Lord.
I have spoken to many people who say that they became a Christian because of the example of people in their family, friends or strangers whose joy is so great they want a part of it. I also know people who have turned away from the faith they once had because they consider those who proclaim themselves to be Christian are hypocrites. Most people don't start out wanting to be Christians because of doctrine. They are influenced one way or another by people. Are you someone whose life exhibits the joy of knowing Jesus and his saving power? Am I? Do your actions give testimony to your beliefs? A person can go to church each week, Bible classes during the week and give every impression of being a devout follower of ...
Morning Prayer
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
Inspiration
There is nothing at all – nothing on the earth and nothing in the spiritual realms – that can separate us from the love of Christ. No matter what any person or principality tries to do in our lives, they will never be able to quash the love Christ has for us. The love God has for us is eternal – it is here to stay for good.
Prayer
Dear God, I thank you for the love that you have for me. Thank you, Lord, that this love will never leave me and it will never forsake me. No matter what anyone tries, or whatever may come my way, Lord, I thank you that your love will always be with me. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Night Prayer
I will hear what God the Lord will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly.
Inspiration
As Christians, we know that we find peace in God. And today, we’re reminded that He promises peace to His people. But we have to do our part, which is listening. It’s when we turn away from wisdom and pursue foolish and selfish endeavors that peace eludes us. But when we turn our ears to His wisdom, He leads us on the path to peace.
Prayer
God, in You I have received peace that passes understanding. Speak Your wisdom to me, and teach me to not be distracted by my own foolish ambitions. Give me ears to hear You so that I may remain close to You and move in Your peace wherever I go. In Jesus’ name, amen.
