Advent 2024 Devotion: December 7

Scripture: Psalm 2
¹ Why do the nations rage,
And the people plot a vain thing?
² The kings of the earth set themselves,
And the rulers take counsel together,
Against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying,
³ “Let us break Their bonds in pieces
And cast away Their cords from us.”
⁴ He who sits in the heavens shall laugh;
The Lord shall hold them in derision.
⁵ Then He shall speak to them in His wrath,
And distress them in His deep displeasure:
⁶ “Yet I have set My King
On My holy hill of Zion.”
⁷ “I will declare the decree:
The Lord has said to Me,
‘You are My Son,
Today I have begotten You.
⁸ Ask of Me, and I will give You
The nations for Your inheritance,
And the ends of the earth for Your possession.
⁹ You shall break them with a rod of iron;
You shall dash them to pieces like a potter’s vessel.’ ”
¹⁰ Now therefore, be wise, O kings;
Be instructed, you judges of the earth.
¹¹ Serve the Lord with fear,
And rejoice with trembling.
¹² Kiss the Son, lest He be angry,
And you perish in the way,
When His wrath is kindled but a little.
Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.

Devotion: Psalm 2 might be an unusual passage for a Christmas devotional. However, it reminds us of the divine sovereignty and kingship of Jesus Christ. It speaks of a powerful Ruler, one who is the Son of God, appointed to reign over the nations. This messianic prophecy finds its fulfillment in the birth of Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Born in a humble manger, He came not with earthly splendor, but with heavenly authority to redeem mankind and establish His eternal kingdom.  We can be discouraged by the chaos in the world around us, but God is not mocked. The baby in the manger is also the judge who will punish wickedness and put an end to evil.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, into the world. As we celebrate His birth, I am reminded of His sovereignty and His eternal reign. Help me to recognize Jesus as our King and to submit to His authority in my life. Fill me with joy and gratitude for the gift of salvation that He brings. Amen.