Dec 24 Devotion: The Spirit of Christmas!

Luke 2:8-14- And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

*notice the…

1. Shepherds -v. 8  (the normal not noble!)

2. Supernatural -v. 9-12

3. Salute -v. 13-14

The Spirit of Christmas!

-v. 14

*the true Spirit of Christmas is found in…

1. Praise!  -v. 14a   (Glory to God)

*by…

-Accepting Him

-Adoring (worship)

-Appreciating (thankful)

1. Peace!  -v. 14b

*there’s…

-Possessing Peace

-Provisional Peace (trials, storms)

-Passeth Peace

Phil. 4:6-7- Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

1. Purpose!  -v. 14c  (Good Will)

*in showing…

-Compassion

-Consideration

-Courtesy

May we embody and embrace the true Spirit of Christmas!

–Pastor Doug Foster