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Encouragement for Today - Dec. 25, 2009

 

 

December 25, 2009

 

Light of the World

Melanie Chitwood

 

"This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all." 1 John 1:5 (NAS)

 

Devotion:

Everywhere I look this time of year, I see lights: flashy lights adorning the mall and streets, the steady glow of candlelight during our Christmas Eve service, and the dazzling lights of outside decorations.  Of all the lights at Christmas, however, I am most drawn to the white, twinkly lights on our Christmas tree. 

 

A tradition I've enjoyed for years is to sit in my favorite chair in the darkened living room with only the illumination of the Christmas trees lights. I let the trees' lights remind me of the brightest light of all, Jesus Christ. 

 

The Bible includes numerous references to light.  As you read these verses, think about how Christ has been a light this past year, or think about what kind of light you need this Christmas season.  Let Christ's light chase away any darkness as you bathe in the splendor of His light.

 

As the creator of light, allow God to create light in your life. (Genesis 1:3)

When you are fearful, let His light make you brave. (Psalm 27:1)

 

If you need direction, His light will show you the way. (Psalm 119:105)

 

When you are in a difficult situation, God's light makes the rough places smooth. (Isaiah 42:16)

 

Do you feel ashamed or guilty?  Accept Christ's light of forgiveness. (John 3:19)

 

Chase away the darkness of hopelessness, loneliness, despair, aimlessness,                                    

confusion, hurt, or anger as you follow Christ, the Light of life. (John 8:12)

 

Be a witness to Christ's light by the way you live your life. (Matthew 5:16)

 

Dear Lord, Thank You for Your Light.  Renew my hope, joy, and trust in You, as all the Christmas lights remind me that You are the Light of the world. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

Related Resources:

Dear Jesus: Seeking His Light in Your Life by Sarah Young

 

Share on Melanie's blog how God is your light

 

What a Husband Needs from His Wife by Melanie Chitwood

Application Steps: 

This year start a tradition of sitting with your Bible bathed in the soft light of your Christmas tree's twinkly lights.  While you do, think about the significance of Christ's light to you and your family this Christmas season.  Use the verses in today's devotion in a private or family devotion time.

 

Reflections: 

Are you sure you're a child of God?  God promises you salvation and an eternal relationship with Him as you believe in His Son Jesus. If you would like to be sure of a relationship with Christ as your Friend, Savior and Light, you are only a prayer away.  He loves you so much and longs for you to rest in the security of His love.  Click here to learn more about having a relationship with Jesus.

 

Power Verses:

John 8:12, "'Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.'" (NLT)

 

 

© 2009 by Melanie Chitwood. All rights reserved.

 

Proverbs 31 Ministries

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Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org