Dear Devotional Readers,
Once again, we will momentarily pause our journey through the "40 Days of Seeking First the Kingdom of God" series. Instead, I want to share something crucial and timely as we navigate the Christmas season. I have prepared a special segment from a recent sermon, “8 Signs You're Getting Too Comfortable in Your Christianity,” complete with engaging visuals and music, to inspire you during this festive time.
Click here to watch the video version
Here are the eight signs to consider, each accompanied by Scripture from the Christian Standard Bible (CSB) and a brief reflection relevant to the Christmas season:
1. Lack of Spiritual Growth or Stagnation:
- Hebrews 5:12 - "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of God’s revelation. You need milk, not solid food."
- Reflection: Christmas is a time of renewal and growth in faith. As we celebrate the birth of Christ, let’s also seek to deepen our understanding and application of His teachings, moving beyond the basics to mature in our spiritual journey.
2. Lack of Compassion for Others:
- 1 John 3:17 - "If anyone has this world’s goods and sees a fellow believer in need but withholds compassion from him—how does God’s love reside in him?"
- Reflection: The Christmas season is synonymous with giving and compassion. Let's ensure our hearts reflect Christ's love by actively caring for those in need, embodying the spirit of generosity that Jesus exemplified.
3. Lack of Community Accountability:
- Hebrews 10:24-25 - "And let us watch out for one another to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
- Reflection: The festive season often brings us together. Let's use this time to strengthen our bonds within our faith community, encouraging and holding each other accountable in love and good deeds.
4. Routine Replacing Relationship:
- Revelation 2:4 - "But I have this against you: you have abandoned the love you had at first."
- Reflection: As we engage in Christmas traditions, let's remember not to let these routines overshadow our personal relationship with Christ. Let our celebrations be a reflection of our love for Him, not just a seasonal habit.
5. Pride in Spiritual Accomplishments:
- 1 Corinthians 10:12 - "So, whoever thinks he stands must be careful not to fall."
- Reflection: In a season of reflection and joy, let’s remain humble, acknowledging that our spiritual achievements are through Christ’s grace, not our own merit.
6. Neglecting Personal Reflection and Confession:
- Lamentations 3:40 - "Let us test and examine our ways and return to the Lord."
- Reflection: Christmas is a perfect time for introspection. Let's take time to reflect on our walk with God, confessing our shortcomings and realigning our path with His Kingdom purpose.
7. Overemphasis on Knowledge Over Application:
- James 1:22 - "But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."
- Reflection: As we learn the story of Christ’s birth, let's not merely know it but live it out, showing His love and grace in our actions and attitudes.
8. The Deception of Busyness:
- Luke 10:41-42 - "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has made the right choice, and it will not be taken away from her."
- Reflection: Amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, let's prioritize our time with God, choosing to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to His word, just like Mary did.
I hope these reflections stir your heart and mind as we approach Christmas. Let's strive not to get too comfortable in our faith but to continually seek growth and deeper understanding of our Savior's love and sacrifice.
Blessings and Merry Christmas,
David