December 9, 2023

Today's daily devotion

When Christmas Feels Broken

Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.—Psalm 42:11 (NIV)

Christmas is supposed to be peaceful and beautiful—yet there are moments when this holiday brings out feelings of being stressed, lonely or sad. When the season isn’t living up to your ideal, know that God is beside you. He is there, even if you don’t feel His presence. Reach out to Him and share your deepest thoughts.

Lord, I know You are beside me, guiding me through the highs and lows of the holiday season.

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Reflect on the Blessed Mother

They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.—Acts 1:14 (NIV)

This verse is the only mention of Jesus’ mother by name after the Resurrection. Scripture affirms that the Blessed Mother, Mary, spent the rest of her days on earth in constant prayer. Reflect on the profound hope she must have felt as she continued her devotion to God.

Heavenly Father, as I prepare to celebrate the birth of the Savior, lead me to look at the many Biblical figures and their tremendous sacrifices. Like them, guide me to live my life so that it magnifies You.

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His Heavenly Peace

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”—Luke 2:13–14 (NIV)

When you feel anxious or overwhelmed with holiday preparations, find peace by worshipping Him. Be still and patient. Ask God to teach you how to worship like the angels this Christmas, praising Him for the gift of His son.

Lord God, lead me by Your spirit. Guide me today and every day.

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Your Best and Brightest Gift

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.—1 Corinthians 12:4 (NIV)

This time of year, instead of focusing on gifts that won’t stand the test of time, consider the gift of being filled with Jesus’ light. Your presence can show others the power of a faith-filled life that stands the test of time. Your gift of light can bring glory to God.

Heavenly Father, perform wonders through my efforts. Shine through me!

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Lighting the Way

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.—John 1:5 (NIV)

Jesus is the Light of the World. Take that truth into the dark places of your heart, especially during the long nights of winter. When problems or difficult feelings entangle your emotions, ask God to help you see that good things are ahead. He will light the way to a better day.

Lord, You are my beacon in life’s many storms. You are always there when I need You, and for that I am forever grateful.

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Unquestioning Obedience

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 (NIV)

Joseph ’s faith and actions were shaped by his deep trust in God. He embraced Jesus as his Son. He followed the direction of the angel and relied on God as the ultimate authority. When you are feeling uncertain about something God is calling you to do, turn to Joseph as a role model of unquestioning faith.

Dear God, I aspire to Joseph’s extraordinary faithfulness. Help me to follow Your Word and accept Your will.

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Celebrate the Season

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God.—Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

Today marks the first day of preparing our hearts for Jesus. Advent is a beautiful time of renewal, a time to reflect on what Jesus coming to the world means to you personally. Reflect on His presence in your life.

Heavenly Father, help me to slow down and focus on You.

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His Handiwork

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.—Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

God has prepared moments and situations that will help you grow and become your best. Trials will strengthen you. Doubts will encourage you to question and deepen your faith. Rejoice! You are His masterpiece, an instrument of His grace.

Heavenly Father, today I will focus on the truth that I am the work of Your hand. You have created me to do good works.

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Praise for the Present

O Lord, open my lips, that my mouth may declare Your praise.—Psalm 51:15 (AMP)

Today, be present as you reflect on Christ’s birth. Praise God for this very moment. Search your heart for blessings that you may be taking for granted. The more you praise God for His goodness, the more prosperous and blessed your life will become.

Dear Lord, Your goodness is greater than I can imagine. I’m grateful for so many things, and I know that You provided them all.

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Fix Your Mind on God

I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.—Psalm 16:8 (NIV)

When you need peace, say King David’s words from the above psalm. No matter what you are going through, God can bring you peace. He is your refuge, a tower of strength. When you are under stress, turn to Him and ask Him to keep your mind fixed on Him.

Lord, You are my Savior. With You at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

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The Love of God

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.—John 1:5 (NIV)

Does the world news overwhelm you? Instead, choose to be overwhelmed by God’s love. When Jesus entered our world, He brought the light of His truth. Let the warmth of His Light enter your spirit, clearing your mind and bringing you peace. The God of grace, love and mercy is with you.

Lord, Your light shines in the darkness and the darkness can never extinguish it.

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Spirit of Wisdom

I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.—Ephesians 1:17 (NIV)

Paul prayed for the people to have a spirit of wisdom and to experience the hope of God’s calling and the greatness of His power. Ask God to open your heart—to unveil the power and beauty of who He is.

God, help me to feel Your presence and to experience Your power.

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Devotions for Good Health

Keep Moving

Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly…—1 CORINTHIANS 9:26 (NIV)

I’m Just Fine

Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.—PROVERBS 12:25 (NIV

Take Care of Your Whole Self

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God— this is your true and proper worship.—Romans 12:1 (NIV)

Free Yourself from Sin

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.—Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)

Devotions for Inspiration

Bless the Animals

So God created the great creatures of the sea and every living thing with which the water teems and that moves about in it, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.—Genesis 1:21 (NIV)

A man stands triumphant on a mountain peak

You Deserve the Best

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.—Colossians 3:23 (ESV)

Renew Your Mind

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.—Romans 12:2 (ESV)

The World Needs Your Light

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.—Matthew 5:16 (ESV)

Devotions on Faith and Prayer

Hands sky worshipping God's hand Bible verses scripture

Sing a New Song

Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth.—Psalm 96:1 (NIV)

Trust His Plan

Oh, that I might have my request, that God would grant my desire.—Job 6:8 (NIV)

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Release Old Hurts

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.—Isaiah 61:1 (NIV)