Session 10

How to find peace this Christmas

From A Celebration of Advent: A 25-Day Devotional

Micah prophesies a ruler will come from Bethlehem, one who will shepherd his people and bring peace.  

“But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,
    who are too little to be among the clans of Judah,
from you shall come forth for me
    one who is to be ruler in Israel,
whose coming forth is from of old,
    from ancient days.” - Micah 5:2

Christmas celebrates God fulfilling this promise, but rarely do our lives reflect it. 

Somehow, the happiest season of all has become the most stressful season of all. We sing about peace yet rush through each day without it. But what if this Christmas could be different? 

Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

The social pressure to buy everyone a gift, go to every party, and fulfill every holiday tradition isn’t going away. We bring peace to the chaos by learning to pray before we plan. 

God wants to be involved in every situation, including how we celebrate Him at Christmas. 

Jesus is our source of peace. So, talk to Him and read His Word. Isaiah 26:3 promises He “will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

The prophecy in Micah is a promise to us. We, too, can enjoy the peace Jesus brings in any season of life.  

Reflect: 

• When we feel like we don’t have enough, taking time to give thanks reminds us how much we already have. What can you thank Jesus for right now?
• Is the lead up to Christmas stressing you out? Take some time today to ask God how He wants you to celebrate this year.