Bible Study & Devotional (January 2, 2021)
Guiding Scripture: Luke 2:11 “Today, in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”
Suggested Additional Reading: Luke 2:1-51, John 3:1-36
🔴 KNOW THE HISTORY BEHIND THE CELEBRATION!
In December, we celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa.
It was not until the fourth century that Christians decided to celebrate the birth of Christ to replace the Roman Saturnalia with a Christian holiday. Use of the date of December 25 was chosen by Pope Julius. On December 21, 2020, Pagans celebrated the winter solstice. This is not new information and is available to read with a quick Google search.
- What is the true meaning of Christmas for you?
- How do you celebrate the birth of Christ?
While you are checking out additional information on-line, take the time to read Luke chapter two. For further insight, read John chapter three and look in the concordance and explore other passages concerning Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection!
Both Hanukkah and Kwanzaa have also pulled from the winter holiday luster even though having different sustainable reasons and goals celebrate a new birth.
Let us Pray: Lord Jesus, your love for us in the expression of your willingness to leave heaven and to be born on sinful earth is unimaginable, yet you did! Thank you. We pray that we will willingly seek your love. Increase our obedience, prayers, study, and closer relationship with you and give ourselves in service and to your glory and honor. Amen
This devotional was submitted by Diana L.W. Coleman, a loving contributor to Our Given Purpose. Edited by Torrie Slaughter the founder of Our Given Purpose® in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
🔴 The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan
Genesis 3:1-4:26, Matthew 2:13-3:6, Psalm 2:1-12, Proverbs 1:7-9
Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan
Bible In A Year Day 2
Today’s passages have a common thread- consequences.
It began in Genesis 3:5-7 with an overwhelming temptation to become ‘better’. The greed of the human condition to control every aspect of life, both seen and unseen. (The desire for an increased worldly awareness versus a spiritual awakening to God’s sovereign nature.)
God did not create dumb humans! We possess a holy power that needs constant guidance.
Applying the divine knowledge to the thoughts we take captive and present before the Lord with what we are troubled will lead to an introspective examination of our deeds. We win the battle of perceived justification by accepting the errors of our acts. Claiming instead of blaming brings peace and unity to our community. God’s mercy, despite our preferences, speaks to the truth of His divine character.
I pray we will value God’s ways by choosing life and acknowledging Him. Let us follow His lead.