Daily Scripture

Micah 5:2

But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah,
who are one of the little clans of Judah,
from you shall come forth for me
one who is to rule in Israel,
whose origin is from of old,
from ancient days.

Luke 1:32-33

[The angel said to Mary, “Your son,] will be great and he will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of David his father. He will rule over Jacob’s house forever, and there will be no end to his kingdom.”

Mark 1:14-15

Jesus came into Galilee announcing God’s good news, saying, “Now is the time! Here comes God’s kingdom! Change your hearts and lives, and trust this good news!”

Matthew 16:15-16

[Jesus said to his disciples], “Who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Revelation 19:16

He has a name written on his robe and on his thigh: King of kings and Lord of lords.

Prayer Tip

As we move in the Christmas season, we begin reflecting on how God used ordinary people to bring about the biggest change in the history of mankind. Jesus was not born into royalty. He was not born into a family with wealth and power. Instead, Mary and Joseph, a carpenter, were chosen.

We can use this, and many other stories in the Bible and take away that God values everyone, not just the wealthy and the powerful. But it is important to remember that also means that God can use ordinary people like us to bring about great change. There is nobody that is insignificant in God’s eyes. When we let the Holy Spirit guide us in what we do, we can work together to make amazing things happen.

This week while you pray please reflect upon a time you felt God called you to do something. Did you do it? How did you feel afterwards?

Think about a time you showed kindness to someone. How did you feel afterwards?

Take some time in prayer to ask God how he can use you during this holiday season to bless others. Maybe it’s donating money to the food pantry or to families struggling this Christmas. Maybe it is making baked goods or painting ornaments for those you love. God can use us in so many ways to bless others.

Good Shepherd,

Thank you for loving us. Please guide us in how we can make your world a better place. Help us to use the ways you have gifted us to bring glory to you.

Amen

— Ashly Cooley, Counseling & Support Ministries