Advent Day 18 - I Can Give My Heart to Him

This year's Advent devotionals are from A Celebration of Advent:
A 25-Day Devotional by New Spring Church of Anderson, SC
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“And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.”
Matthew 2:11

Jesus was probably one or two years old when the wise men arrived. Though Jesus was unable to do anything for them, they were overjoyed to see Him and showered Him with gifts fit for royalty. The wise men celebrated Jesus purely for who He is— a miracle child and promised king. Jesus had yet to heal a single person or preach a single message.

God is pleased when we acknowledge the good things He does for us. But suppose God never does another thing for us? He would still be worthy of worship.

Romans 12:1 tells us, “True and proper worship is to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” Worship is a life lived for the Lord. Worship is willingly surrendering to God’s plan for our lives every day. When we do, we give Jesus the greatest gift of all — a heart devoted to Him alone...

Of course, we are thankful for all that He has done and will do for us. But for today, let’s give our hearts fully to Jesus and follow the lead of the wise men who praised Jesus simply for who He is— the King of kings.

Reflect: Read Matthew 2:1-12

What happens in your heart and mind when you praise God for who He is versus praising God for His provision?
What do you love about Jesus? Tell Him.
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Prayer:

Father,
          All You ever want from us is our heart - our whole heart - but we always try to hold some of it back. Forgive us for all the times we try to do this life on our terms instead of Yours. Forgive our selfishness, our 'mine mine mine' attitude, and break through the part of us that always wants to hold onto a part of self... the very part that keeps us separated from You. Help us to understand the deepest part of Your love. We want to love You simply and best just for who You are. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen