Christmas Devotional Revisited 2022
December 3rd
Centenary Christmas Devotional from 2009
Read Luke 1:5-7
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Zechariah and Elizabeth were faithful followers of God who had no children. Later in the passage, Elizabeth had seen her lack of children as a “disgrace” (vs. 25). It was believed at this time that lack of children was disfavor from God. We can assume that they had a strong desire to have children.
When you made the choice to follow God, He did not promise a life without pain or hardships. Elizabeth and Zechariah were faithful to God yet probably one of their strongest desires (i.e. children) was not being met. Natalie Grant, a contemporary Christian singer, has a song called “Held.” It identifies the struggle believers have when pain and loss occurs. God’s promise was that he will be with us to help us navigate through tragedy or unmet needs. We have the choice to turn to God and allow Him to be our anchor in these storms.
Digging Deeper
When you made the choice to follow God, He did not promise a life without pain or hardships. Elizabeth and Zechariah were faithful to God yet probably one of their strongest desires (i.e. children) was not being met. Natalie Grant, a contemporary Christian singer, has a song called “Held.” It identifies the struggle believers have when pain and loss occurs. God’s promise was that he will be with us to help us navigate through tragedy or unmet needs. We have the choice to turn to God and allow Him to be our anchor in these storms.
Digging Deeper
- In these three verses, identify what we learn about Elizabeth and Zechariah.
- What specific characteristics are they identified with in verse 6?
- Can you identify a time that you felt “Held” by God?
Prayer Suggestion: Pray for those who have experienced loss this last year.
Special Christmas Gift Memory from Susan A.
When I was 6 years old, I lived with adults. There were no children in the home but me. I was very lonely! I just knew that being given a Chatty Cathy would solve the problem. I did not know the Lord, but I wished and wished for one. Guess what? I got one! I just knew I was blessed. I did not know how, but I knew I was. I loved her for many years. I know the Lord knew I was thanking him.
When I was 6 years old, I lived with adults. There were no children in the home but me. I was very lonely! I just knew that being given a Chatty Cathy would solve the problem. I did not know the Lord, but I wished and wished for one. Guess what? I got one! I just knew I was blessed. I did not know how, but I knew I was. I loved her for many years. I know the Lord knew I was thanking him.