The Daily Devotional for Sunday, December 17, 2023: Embracing Wisdom and Togetherness at Christmas

 

The Daily Devotional
Sunday, December 17, 2023

Embracing Wisdom and Togetherness

at Christmas

For the Lord detests the perverse but takes the upright into his confidence.
Proverbs 3:32 (NIV)

David and Angie, motivated by a strong sense of purpose, relocated overseas, leading to a rewarding ministry. However, this move had a significant drawback: David's aging parents were left to spend their Christmases alone. To ease their solitude, David and Angie sent gifts in advance and made phone calls on Christmas Day, but it was clear that his parents yearned for their physical presence. With limited financial resources, making frequent trips back home was not feasible for David, prompting a need for innovative solutions.

As the festive season of Christmas nears, we are invited to immerse ourselves in the deep wisdom offered by Proverbs 3:32, a verse that gracefully reveals how God intimately confides in those who live uprightly, thus providing a heavenly perspective on the complexities of life. Proverbs 3 as a whole serves as a guide in the pursuit of wisdom, urging believers to present their challenges to God (verses 5-6) and emphasizing virtues such as love and faithfulness (verses 3-4, 7-12). It also underscores the blessings of peace and longevity that come with wisdom (verses 13-18). Significantly, this scripture poignantly emphasizes that God imparts His wisdom to those He holds dear, a notion that can profoundly enrich our sense of togetherness during the Christmas season.

Reflecting on Uprightness

To be upright in God’s eyes is to live a life of integrity, honesty, and moral rectitude. As we prepare for Christmas, it's a time to reflect on our actions and thoughts over the past year. Have we walked in the path of righteousness? Have we made decisions that honor God and reflect His love and grace?

Wisdom in Togetherness

Proverbs 3:32 suggests that God shares His secrets with the upright. What might this look like during Christmas? It could mean recognizing the importance of being together, both physically and spiritually. Christmas is more than just a festive season; it's a time to connect deeply with our loved ones and with God.

Creating Togetherness

This Christmas, let’s strive to create a sense of togetherness, even if physical presence isn’t possible. Just as David and Angie found a way to be with their family through a video call, we can use the tools and resources at our disposal to bridge any distance. Remember, togetherness isn’t just about being in the same room; it’s about feeling connected at heart.

Practical Steps

• Connect Virtually: Use technology to connect with those who are far away. Arrange a video call to share a meal, sing carols, or simply talk.

• Share Your Stories: Encourage each other by sharing how God has been working in your lives over the past year.

• Pray Together: Even over a call, take time to pray with and for each other, embracing the spiritual connection that unites us.

Conclusion

In conclusion, David's prayerful reflection led to a heartwarming solution that transformed their Christmas celebration. He and Angie, along with David’s parents, elegantly dressed up, decorated their dining spaces, and prepared delightful meals. Connecting through a video call, they shared this special day virtually, creating an experience so vivid and touching that it became a cherished family tradition. This story echoes the essence of Proverbs 3:32, where walking uprightly with God opens us to His wisdom and fellowship. As we celebrate this Christmas, let us seek such wisdom to deepen our connections, engage in meaningful conversations, and share joyous moments, regardless of the physical distance. May this festive season be filled with the spirit of togetherness, nurtured by divine wisdom, enriching our hearts and homes alike.