Day 9: Peace Beyond Christmas

As we step into Day 9 of the 10 Day Christmas devotional (or hopefully I have converted you to the Priority Time terminology by now), we enter into one of the most joy-filled moments in the Christmas story. 

This particular passage refers to the wise men falling down and worshipping Jesus. Obviously, we are not wise men and women literally trying to find a physical baby, but the image in this passage does help accentuate an important priority time tip. Be strategic about where you have your priority time. 

The goal is to have a place that is private and free from distractions. If you have a favorite chair or space to be dedicated to your favorite time every morning, that would be epic. Not everyone has the space or schedule to make that happen. Have no fear, a car or a closet have been my priority time locations over the years. What you want to avoid is a public place or a bed. In a public place, you will not only be distracted, but you will be self conscious. I have never seen anyone kneel down in a Starbucks to worship or lay prostrate to pray. You want to be somewhere that as you spend time with the Lord you can be vulnerable and authentic, not self conscious. Laying in bed is a recipe for falling asleep. You want to be awake, alert, and ideally have a table and chair so you can have a Bible, journal, and maybe even your morning coffee and you meet your Heavenly Father.

DAY 9

9After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. Matthew 2:9-11

FOCUSED THINKING

What are we told about the star?

What do we learn about the wise men’s actions? Emotions?

What did they bring with them on the journey?

PERSONAL APPLICATION

Lord, where do I need to take a step and trust you will provide the guidance and direction I need?

Where do I need to prepare in advance out of faith to bless you?