Monday
“For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
How does a good earthly father show love to his children? What sacrifices might he make for them? What sacrifices has Jesus made for you to bring you into His family? How can you learn more about Jesus’ love for you? How will you respond to His unconditional love each day?
Tuesday
“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
How does the world define love in movies, songs, books, and social media? How does that definition differ from the biblical definition in this verse? What attitudes and actions reflect true love? What is the source of true love you show to others?
Wednesday
“We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters” (1 John 3:16).
Why did Jesus give up His life for you? How do His actions demonstrate real love to you? How can we return love to Jesus? Who are our brothers and sisters? How does giving up our lives for them imitate Jesus’ love?
Thursday
“Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions” (1 John 3:18).
How do Jesus’ actions show He loves people? How have you felt when someone used the word “love” but did not treat you in a loving way? How have you shown love for other people with your actions? When you struggle to be consistent in love, where can you find strength?
Friday
“Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you” (1 John 2:15).
What are some things you love? What does the world offer to you? What does the love of God offer? Have you ever found yourself longing more for the things of the world than God? When your heart pulls you toward the things of this world, how can you resist and return to wholehearted love for God?
Draw Near to Jesus
The busyness of the Christmas season easily distracts us from Jesus. Consider pairing your Advent discussions with my Christmas devotional, 25 Symbols of Christmas: Finding Jesus, to deepen your devotion to the Savior born in Bethlehem. I also invite you to download free Christmas resources at my website.
God smiles when you seek Him through His Word. Draw close to Jesus and your family through hope, peace, joy, and love this Advent season.
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