Daily Manna

Daily Devotions from the Bible!

Tag: Christmas

A Christian’s Three Must-Have Resolutions: Seeking, Growing, Sharing!

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On 1 January 2024, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament, Old Testament

Today’s Manna!

As we step into a new year, Christians are presented with an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to their faith. Consider three must-have resolutions that can deepen your walk with God, foster spiritual growth, and fulfill the Great Commission.

  1. Resolution to Seek God Intimately:
    Reference: Psalm 105:4 – “Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.”
    Make it a priority to spend quality time with God through prayer, meditation, and studying His Word. D.L. Moody once said, “The only way to keep a broken vessel full is to keep it always under the tap.” Seek God’s presence daily, and you’ll find strength, wisdom, and peace.
  2. Resolution to Grow Spiritually:
    Reference: 2 Peter 3:18 – “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
    Commit to spiritual growth by engaging in Bible study, attending church, and participating in fellowship. As C.S. Lewis wisely noted, “You can make anything by writing.” So, journal your spiritual journey, recording insights and reflections. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and let the transformative power of God shape you into the person He designed you to be.
  3. Resolution to Evangelize and Share God’s Love:
    Reference: Matthew 28:19-20 – ” Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
    Resolve to share the love of Christ with others, whether through acts of kindness, inviting someone to church, or sharing your personal testimony. Charles Spurgeon encouraged, “Every Christian is either a missionary or an imposter.” Recognize that evangelism is not only for a select few but an integral part of every believer’s calling.

Heavenly Father, as we embark on this new season, we commit to seeking Your face, growing in Your grace, and sharing Your love with those around us. Grant us the strength and wisdom to uphold these resolutions in the year ahead. May our lives be a testimony to Your transformative power. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Counting Blessings as We Await the New Year 2024!

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On 31 December 2023, Sunday

In Biblical, Old Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Psalm 103:2

“Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, the psalmist’s words echo a timeless truth – an invitation to the depths of our souls to praise the Lord and remember His abundant blessings. In a world often marked by challenges and uncertainties, God’s care for His people remains unwavering.

Psalm 92:1-2 (NIV) beautifully complements this sentiment, saying, “It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night.” Together, these verses emphasize the rhythm of praise woven into the fabric of our days. In praising God, we find a transformative practice, a way to recognize and appreciate His constant care.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) further illuminates this theme, urging 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.” As we approach the new year, this passage beckons us to trust God, to lay our worries before Him, and to embrace the peace that comes from recognizing His sovereignty.

In the spirit of awaiting the new year, let us count on God’s blessings, remembering the ways He has faithfully carried us through the past and trusting His promises for the future. As we reflect on Psalm 103:2, may we intentionally recount the benefits of our relationship with Him – His forgiveness, healing, redemption, and boundless love.

New Year Wish: As we step into the canvas of a new year, my prayer for you is that God’s grace continues to abound in your life. May you experience His peace that surpasses all understanding, and may each day be a testament to His faithfulness and goodness. Happy New Year 2024!

Let’s pray: Gracious Lord, as we stand on the cusp of a new year, we praise You and forget not all Your benefits. Help us to count our blessings, to trust in Your care, and to find peace in Your unfailing love. As we wait upon You for the new year, may Your grace and favor be our constant companions. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Warm regards,

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Recognizing the Unchanging Source of Every Gift!

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On 30 December 2023, Saturday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: James 1:17

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

In a world characterized by constant change, this verse serves as an anchor, grounding us in the unchanging nature of our heavenly Father. Every good and perfect gift, whether tangible or intangible, finds its origin in God’s unchanging character. The imagery of the Father of heavenly lights highlights not only His majesty but also His consistency – a stark contrast to the shifting shadows that characterize the temporal and uncertain aspects of life.

As we approach the dawn of a new year, it’s essential to recognize that even the passing of time is a divine gift. The turning of the calendar is not merely a chronological event; it is a manifestation of God’s continuous grace, offering us the opportunity to embrace new beginnings and fresh possibilities. In understanding this, we navigate the uncertainties of the future with the assurance that the God who bestows good and perfect gifts remains constant, unwavering in His love and provision.

The gifts God provides are not subject to the unpredictability of earthly circumstances. His goodness is a steady stream, flowing from the heavenly realms to meet us in every season of life. The new year, like every day, is a gift from God, a canvas upon which His faithfulness is painted anew.

As we stand on the threshold of the coming year, let us live with a profound understanding that every moment, every opportunity, and every blessing is a gift from our unchanging Father. May we approach the unknown future with confidence, trusting in His wisdom and embracing His gifts with gratitude.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the truth that every good and perfect gift comes from You. As we step into the new year, help us live with a deep understanding that time itself is a gift from You. May we navigate the uncertainties of the future with confidence, knowing that You, our unchanging Father, go before us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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A Sacrifice of Devotion!

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On 28 December 2023, Thursday

In Biblical, New Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Luke 2:22-24

In the pages of Luke 2:22-24, we find a poignant moment in the life of Mary and Joseph, a young couple devout in their faith and committed to the traditions of their time. The scripture recounts the presentation of baby Jesus at the temple, a testament to the obedience and reverence this humble family had for God’s law.

As we delve into these verses, we witness a beautiful display of devotion. Mary and Joseph, in fulfillment of the Mosaic Law, bring their firstborn son to the temple for dedication to the Lord. This act, seemingly routine, carries profound significance. It speaks to a deeper commitment, a surrender to God’s will and an acknowledgment of His sovereignty.

Imagine the scene: the fragility of the infant Savior held in the arms of His earthly parents, entering the sacred space of the temple. The atmosphere charged with a sense of awe and reverence. Amidst the rituals and offerings, Mary and Joseph present two doves, the prescribed sacrifice for those who could not afford a lamb. In this act, we witness not just an observance of religious duty but a sacrificial offering from hearts attuned to God’s will.

This passage resonates with us today as a reminder of the essence of true devotion. It goes beyond mere rituals or routine practices. True devotion involves a willingness to surrender, to give of ourselves even when it seems we have little to offer. Mary and Joseph, with their modest offering, exemplify a devotion that stems from the heart, a devotion that is not measured by external grandeur but by the sincerity of our surrender to God.

As we reflect on Luke 2:22-24, let us examine the nature of our devotion. Are we presenting ourselves before God with a genuine and sacrificial heart? In a world that often values the grandiose, let our devotion be marked by authenticity and humility.

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, as we contemplate the devotion of Mary and Joseph, teach us to offer ourselves to You with sincerity and humility. May our acts of worship be reflections of hearts surrendered to Your will. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

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Gospel Proclaimers: The Shepherds’ Radiant Witness!

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On 27 December 2023, Wednesday

In Biblical, New Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Luke 2:16-20

In the quietude of a Bethlehem night, a group of shepherds, entrusted with their flocks, became the first heralds of the gospel. The miraculous sight of the newborn Savior compelled them to seek out Mary, Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. As they stood in the presence of the divine, a transformation occurred within them, and their response in Luke 2:16-20 exemplifies the radiant witness of those who have encountered the Savior.

Verse 16 captures the immediacy of the shepherds’ response: “So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.” Their eagerness reflects the urgency that often accompanies an encounter with the divine. Overwhelmed by the reality of the angelic announcement, they sought confirmation, and in finding the newborn King, their hearts swelled with awe.

Having seen Jesus, the shepherds were not content to keep this revelation to themselves. Verse 17 reveals their immediate response: “When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.” The shepherds became the first evangelists, sharing the remarkable news of the Messiah’s birth. Their witness was not based on eloquence or theological prowess but on the undeniable reality of their personal encounter with the Savior.

Verse 18 highlights the impact of their testimony: “And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” The shepherds’ witness sparked wonder and amazement among those who heard the extraordinary story. Their testimony wasn’t just a recitation of facts but a heartfelt proclamation of the marvelous work of God.

As the shepherds returned to their fields, they carried with them an indelible mark of divine encounter. Verse 20 beautifully captures their response: “The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” Their witness led to personal transformation, and their lives became an ongoing hymn of praise to the God who revealed Himself in the form of a vulnerable, newborn child.

Heavenly Father, like the shepherds, may our encounter with Your Son, Jesus Christ, ignite a fervent desire to share the good news with others. Empower us to be bold witnesses, not only through our words but also through the radiant transformation of our lives. May our testimony cause others to marvel and glorify You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Heavenly Harmony: Proclaiming Peace on Earth!

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On 26 December 2023, Tuesday

In Biblical, New Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Luke 2:13-15

In the celestial tapestry of the nativity scene, Luke 2:13-15 reveals a symphony of heavenly beings joining together in praise and proclamation. “Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests'” (Luke 2:13-14, NIV). The proclamation of peace on earth is a resonant chord that echoes through the ages, inviting us to join in the divine harmony.

The heavenly host, appearing in glorious splendor, brings a message that transcends the temporal joy of Christmas. Their praise is directed to the highest heavens, acknowledging the glory of God manifested in the birth of the Savior. Yet, the proclamation extends beyond the heavens, reaching down to the earth with a message of profound significance—peace.

Verse 14 encapsulates the heart of the message: “on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” This peace is not a mere absence of conflict but a comprehensive peace that emanates from divine favor. It is the peace that comes from being reconciled to God, a peace that surpasses understanding and transforms hearts.

The proclamation of peace on earth is a reminder that the arrival of Jesus is not just a historical event but a cosmic intervention. It heralds the inauguration of God’s kingdom, where the Prince of Peace establishes His reign in the hearts of those who receive Him.

As we reflect on Luke 2:13-15, may the proclamation of peace resonate in our hearts. In the midst of a world often marred by conflict and chaos, the message of peace on earth reminds us of the transformative power of God’s favor. The birth of Jesus, celebrated at Christmas, is an invitation to experience the peace that comes from being in a right relationship with God.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the proclamation of peace on earth through the birth of Your Son, Jesus Christ. May the reality of Your favor resting upon us bring a deep and abiding peace to our hearts. As we celebrate Christmas, help us to share the message of peace with others and to live as instruments of Your transformative peace in the world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Merry Christmas: The Savior is Born!

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On 25 December 2023, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament, Themed Devotions

Christmas Day Manna!

Scripture: Luke 2:11-12

In the quiet town of Bethlehem, beneath the starlit sky, a divine announcement resounds in Luke 2:11-12: “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” These verses encapsulate the profound mystery of Christmas, where the Savior of the world is revealed in the humble setting of a manger.

The title “Savior” carries profound implications. Jesus is not merely a teacher or a guide; He is the Savior, the One who rescues, redeems, and reconciles humanity to God. His arrival in Bethlehem is not an abstract event but a personal invitation. The words “to you” in Luke 2:11 echo through time, extending an individualized call to each person, affirming that Jesus came for you.

The contrasting imagery in verse 12 is striking—the Messiah, the long-awaited King, lying in a manger, a feeding trough for animals. This juxtaposition of royalty and humility underscores Jesus’ identification with the very people He came to save. His choice of a lowly birthplace is an intentional declaration of solidarity with the human experience, bridging the gap between divinity and humanity.

As we reflect on Luke 2:11-12, we are invited to embrace the profound truth that Jesus is not a distant Savior but a personal one. He came for you, meeting you in the midst of your joys, struggles, and ordinary moments. The manger, far from being a symbol of limitation, becomes a symbol of accessibility, an open invitation to encounter the Savior.

This Christmas, may the awareness of Jesus as the Savior resonate in our hearts. In the midst of festive celebrations, may we pause to acknowledge the personal nature of God’s love expressed through the birth of His Son. Embrace the reality that Jesus came for you, making the joy of Christmas deeply personal.

Gracious Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, our Savior, born in a humble manger. May the reality of Jesus as the Messiah resonate in our hearts. Help us to embrace the personal invitation of Christmas, acknowledging that Jesus came for each one of us. In His name, we pray. Amen.

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Gospel: Good News for All!

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On 24 December 2023, Sunday

In Biblical, New Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Luke 2:10

In the shepherds’ field, bathed in the ethereal glow of an angelic presence, a proclamation resounds in Luke 2:10: “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.'” These words mark the advent of the Savior and encapsulate the inclusive nature of the gospel—good news for all people.

The birth of Jesus, heralded as “good news,” shatters the boundaries of exclusivity. It is an announcement meant for everyone, regardless of status, background, or circumstance. The shepherds, considered lowly in society, were the recipients of this celestial message, underscoring the universal accessibility of God’s salvation.

The inclusive nature of the gospel finds its roots in God’s redemptive plan for humanity. The arrival of Jesus is not restricted to a select few but extends to the whole world. Salvation is not an exclusive privilege but an open invitation, a divine gesture of love reaching out to people from every walk of life.

As we ponder Luke 2:10, we are reminded that the joyous message of Christmas is not reserved for the privileged or righteous. It is a beacon of hope for the broken, a source of comfort for the weary, and a promise of redemption for all who believe. The good news is not bound by human limitations; it reaches into the depths of every heart, offering the gift of salvation.

This inclusive message challenges us to embrace a broader perspective in our interactions with others. The grace extended to us through Christ compels us to share the good news, breaking down barriers that may hinder others from experiencing the joy and salvation found in Jesus.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the inclusive nature of the gospel, the good news proclaimed to all people. Help us to share this message with joy and love, reaching out to those who may feel excluded. May the salvation offered through Jesus be a source of hope and joy for everyone we encounter. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Mary’s Divine Assignment: Embracing God’s Duties and Blessings!

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On 22 December 2023, Friday

In Biblical, New Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Luke 1:26-28

In Luke 1:26-28, we witness a divine encounter that would alter the course of human history. The angel Gabriel is sent by God to a humble young woman named Mary, greeting her with the words, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28, NIV). This encounter between heaven and earth unfolds with profound implications for Mary and all of humanity.

Mary’s life was interrupted by a divine assignment. She was chosen to be the vessel through whom the Savior of the world would enter into human existence. The duty God gave her was weighty and beyond comprehension, yet it was accompanied by a unique blessing – the favor of God and the Lord’s abiding presence.

Mary’s response to the angel’s message is a testament to her humility and willingness to submit to God’s plan. “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38, NIV). In her acceptance of God’s duty, Mary embraced not only the responsibilities but also the blessings woven into her divine assignment.

This passage prompts us to consider our own response when God assigns duties to us. Like Mary, we are called to be receptive to God’s plans, even when they seem beyond our understanding. God’s duties are not arbitrary; they are purposeful, carrying the potential for divine blessings that extend beyond our immediate circumstances.

The blessing Mary received was not only personal but had far-reaching implications for the salvation of humanity. In the duties God assigns us, there are blessings not just for ourselves but for those around us. God’s plans often involve the transformation of lives, the spreading of His love, and the fulfillment of His redemptive purposes.

As we reflect on Mary’s divine assignment, may we find inspiration to embrace the duties God places before us. In our willingness to serve, may we recognize the blessings that flow from obedience. May our hearts echo Mary’s humble acceptance, and may we, too, experience the favor of God as we fulfill the unique roles He assigns.

Heavenly Father, like Mary, we desire to be receptive to Your divine assignments. Grant us the humility and willingness to embrace the duties You place before us. May we recognize the blessings woven into our obedience and experience Your favor as we fulfill the unique roles You assign. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Jesus: The Savior!

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On 21 December 2023, Thursday

In Biblical, New Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Matthew 1:20-21

In the quiet town of Nazareth, an angelic visitation to Joseph unfolds a pivotal moment in the divine narrative. Matthew 1:20-21 unveils the profound purpose behind the birth of Jesus, emphasizing salvation as the very heartbeat of His coming.

Amidst the uncertainties and questions surrounding Mary’s pregnancy, Joseph, a righteous man, grapples with the revelation of a child conceived by the Holy Spirit. In the midst of his contemplation, an angel appears with a message that transcends the earthly realm: “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:20, NIV).

The angel continues, “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21, NIV). The very name “Jesus” encapsulates the mission of salvation. It signifies not just a historical figure but the embodiment of God’s redemptive plan, a plan set in motion by the miraculous conception and birth of this child.

The significance of Jesus’ birth lies in His role as the Savior. In a world entangled with the consequences of sin, Jesus comes as the answer to humanity’s deepest need – salvation from the bondage of sin and its eternal consequences. The angel’s proclamation echoes the prophetic anticipation found in Isaiah 7:14, where Immanuel, “God with us,” is promised, and now, in Jesus, that promise is realized.

As we reflect on Matthew 1:20-21, we are invited to marvel at the intentional nature of Jesus’ birth. It was not a random event but a divine strategy for the redemption of humanity. The salvation offered by Jesus extends beyond a momentary rescue; it encompasses an eternal transformation, a reconciliation with God, and the restoration of what was broken.

May the realization of Jesus as the Savior infuse our Christmas celebrations with profound gratitude. In the midst of festive joy, may we remember that the very reason for His birth is our salvation. The manger in Bethlehem becomes the cradle of hope, and Jesus, the Savior, is the gift of eternal life.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the purposeful birth of Jesus, the Savior who came to rescue us from sin. May the reality of His name, “Jesus,” inspire gratitude in our hearts. As we celebrate Christmas, help us to grasp the profound significance of the salvation offered through Your Son. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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