Luke 2:10, 13–14 (NIV®)
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” … 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.”
The world tends to focus on the darkness—the destructive things, the evil things, the immoral things, the unsettling things. While it’s important to be aware of what’s going on in the world, focusing on it too much can be overwhelming. At the time of Jesus’ birth, there was desperation, corruption, sin, and depravity throughout the world, but the angels said that great joy had come. And to this day, no matter what is going on in your world, you have reason to rejoice! Take time in this season to praise God for sending His Son. Celebrate the victories you see around you—the children whose hearts are being changed at church, the baptisms that have happened this year, the times people have been given exactly what they need, the places in your life where there is vitality and activity. Think of the blessings of the last year. Pause to truly acknowledge what happened when Jesus came to earth all those years ago, then rejoice! Rejoice!
THINK ABOUT IT
Joy is a response of your spirit, not a result of your circumstances. You may be going through a difficult or confusing time right now, but God is near! The Spirit of God can bring joy and contentment to your life that transcends any current situation.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your blessings on my life. Thank You for Your Son. Today I will praise You and glorify Your name, no matter what’s going on in my life or the world around me, because You are good! May You become a greater reality in my heart and life than all the darkness around me, and let Your joy be my strength. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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