Joy to the World Advent

Advent Devotional 2022

About Advent

The word "Advent" is derived from the Latin word “coming”. In Christian tradition Advent is a season of expectant waiting and preparation for the coming of Christ. Advent not only pertains to Christmas and the arrival of Jesus to Bethlehem as a baby, but also relates to the second coming of Christ, the hope, and the call to preparation that this instills in our hearts. The Latin word "adventus" is the translation of the Greek word "parousia", which is used throughout the New Testament to refer to the second coming of Christ.

Christian celebrations preceding Christmas dates all the way back to the 5th century. Though many different expressions of the Christian faith have embraced Advent, the majority focus attention preparing for the Second Coming, while also commemorating the First Coming of Christ at Christmas.

Some classic traditions that accompany Advent include the keeping of an Advent calendar, lighting of an advent wreath and praying through an Advent devotional.

At Emmanuel, we like to pray through an Advent devotional. So enjoy reading the designated scripture each day, taking time to reflect and pray, while you prepare your heart for Christmas and the Second Coming of Christ!

Day 1

11/27/22

SHINE DOWN ON US

Read: Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19

In today’s reading, the Psalmist acknowledges the greatness of the Lord and asks for the salvation which can only come from God. The Lord, the great Shepherd, can frown or smile upon the community. Realizing salvation is from God alone, they repent and turn back to God, asking Him to smile upon them again.

Joy has come to the world through Jesus coming to earth. As we approach Christmas, we need to remember that God alone can change the hearts of people.

Psalm 80:19, “Turn us again to yourself. O Lord God of Heaven’s Armies. Make your face shine down upon us. Only then will we be saved.”

As you remember what Jesus has done on this earth, begin to remember those around you in prayer.

Prayer: Lord, please turn the hearts of the people in our community back to you. Give us eyes to see and a heart to care for others this Christmas season. Amen.

Day 2

11/28/22

THE GREAT DIVIDE

Read: Genesis 3:8-15

In the reading for today, we are brought into the story of Adam and Eve and the first sin. God finds the couple hiding in the garden, afraid of facing the Creator they disobeyed. We see how sin entered the world and caused a divide between God and man. The consequences of sin are great.

Just like Adam and Eve’s interaction with the serpent separated them from God, so our sin causes a divide between us and our Savior. We can repent and come to him with our failures.

“Then the Lord asked the woman, ‘what have you done?’ ‘The serpent deceived me,’ she replied. ‘That’s why I ate it.’” Genesis 3:13 (NLT)

As you reflect on your past and need for a way to bridge the divide, you can pour out your heart to the Lord and thank him for making a way to restore you to a right relationship with him.

Prayer: Lord, I acknowledge that I have sinned and am in need of your grace. Thank you for sending your son, Jesus, to earth to pay for my mistakes. Amen.

Day 3

11/29/22

HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

Read: Genesis 15:1-6

Today, we get to experience the great faith of Abram. Though he was old and had no children, Abram believed God when he promised that Abram would have more descendants than stars in the sky. Abram’s faith in God gave him hope for the future.

We can also be filled with hope when we believe what God has promised to us. He has given us great and precious promises as his children. We can share what we believe to those around us, giving them hope as well.

As you ponder God’s

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the hope that we have because of your promises to us. Help us to have unwavering faith like Abram.

“Then the Lord said to him, ‘No, your servant will not be your heir, for you will have a son of your own who will be your heir.’” Genesis 15:4 (NLT)

promises to you, begin to praise him for his faithfulness and mercy.

Day 4

11/30/22

RECEIVED BY FAITH

Read: Romans 4:13-25

In today’s reading, we learn that faith is the key to our righteousness. Much like Abraham was counted righteous because of his steadfast faith in what God promised to him, so we are made right with God through our belief in Jesus’ act of love on the cross. Righteousness is a gift for those who believe in the resurrection.

We can choose to have faith like Abraham and continue to believe, even in the face of uncertainty. We can proclaim that we believe when our situation seems to be impossible.

“Abraham

Romans 4:20 (NLT)

As you reflect on your faith, you can look for any areas where you may have unbelief and ask God to help you overcome that unbelief.

Prayer: Lord, even when I cannot understand your plan, help me to keep believing. Amen

never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God.”

Day 5

12/1/22

HEIRS OF THE PROMISE

Read: Galatians 3:23-29

In this passage, our identity as a child of God is made clear. When we come into relationship with the Father, he brings us to a place of kinship with Christ, a fellow heir to God’s promise. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross ushers us into the Kingdom family and we become God’s children. We can face the challenges of this life with the security that comes from having a Heavenly Father. He has given us an inheritance that is rich beyond measure and his Holy Spirit is with us always. We can walk in trust and bring everything to him, trusting that he loves us.

Galatians 3:29

As you ponder the richness of your inheritance,

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the gift of your son and for calling me your child. Help me to live as an heir to the promise. Amen.

“And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God’s promise to Abraham belongs to you.”

(NLT)

you can begin to claim the promises of God as your own.

Day 6

12/2/22

GLORY TO GOD

Read: Romans 16:25-27

The reading today draws us into the glorious plan of God to redeem us through his son, Jesus Christ. Once kept secret, God’s wisdom has now been made known to all so that we may believe and obey him. Glory to God for making a way for us!

As we understand the incredible greatness of God’s plan to save us, we can praise him and give him the glory that he deserves. He is worthy of all of our praise.

Romans 16:27 (NLT) “All glory to the only wise God, though Jesus Christ, forever. Amen.”

As you meditate on the glory of God, begin to thank him for all the ways you see him in your life, working all things for good.

Prayer: Lord, you alone are worthy of all of the glory in heaven and on earth. May you receive all of the honor and praise you deserve. I give you all the glory today. Amen.

Day 7

12/3/22

PATIENT ENDURANCE

Read: James 5:7-10

In today’s reading, we receive encouragement to patiently endure as we wait for the coming of the Lord Jesus. We are certain to have times of suffering, but we can look forward with courage just like the prophets of old did when they faced hardship. They patiently endured as they waited on the Lord.

As we wait for the Lord to return, we can choose to be patient with those around us and endure the hardships we face with gratitude. We can stop grumbling and lean in to the Lord for strength.

James 5:10

As you remember how patient God is with you, you can choose to exhibit patience with the people that you come into contact with today.

Prayer:

Lord, as I wait for the return of your son, Jesus, please fill me with the patient endurance I need to run the good race of faith. Amen.

(NLT) "For examples of patience in suffering, dear brothers and sisters, look at the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.”

Day 8

12/4/22

HE IS OUR JOY

Read: Psalm 146:5-10

In the passage for today, the Psalmist declares a myriad of reasons we have joy in the Lord. He is a God of righteousness and justice, and his provision for his people is like no other god. The fullness of his love for us is a constant source of joy.

When we understand the goodness of our King, we can choose to have joy in any circumstance. As we go through the holiday season, we can remember all of the ways that he is good to us.

Psalm 146:5 (NLT)

You can take time to reflect on the ways that the Lord has taken care of you this year and joyfully thank him for all that he has done.

Prayer: Lord, you alone are the reason for my joy. Thank you for being all that I need and loving me so completely. Amen.

"But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the Lord their God.”

Day 9

12/5/22

THE PROMISED KING

Read: Micah 5:2-5a

In the reading for today, a prophecy of the coming messiah fills us with expectation. The promised King, who will lead with the strength and majesty of God, is coming to reign. He will be the source of peace and he will rescue all those who have been exiled, bringing them home.

Peace can be ours today because of the Promised King. Jesus will return soon, bringing with him a kingdom that will never end. We can declare his peace over every part of our lives.

Micah 5:5 (NLT) “And he will be the source of peace.”

As you wait on the Lord to return, you can pray for others to find the peace of God in their lives.

Prayer: Lord, I wait with expectancy for the Promised King to return. Please fill me with your peace until that day dawns. Amen.

Day 10

12/6/22

A KING AND A PRIEST

Read: Zechariah 6:12-13

The text for today depicts a priest who is crowned King and will build the temple of the Lord. According to tradition, priests were not usually crowned. However, Jesus is both of those roles for us: he reigns with justice, but he also meets us with mercy when we fall short and need forgiveness.

We can approach our King without fear, bringing both our injustices and our sins before his throne. He will be fair but will not fail to demonstrate his mercy when we have sinned and ask for him to blot out the stain of our sin.

Zechariah 6:13b (NLT)

As you reflect on your Kingly Priest, you can humbly begin to pour out your heart at his feet, asking for his forgiveness.

Prayer: Lord, you alone are righteous and just. Point out anything in me that offends you and lead me on the path of everlasting life. Amen.

“Then he will receive royal honor and will rule as king from his throne. He will also serve as priest from his throne, and there will be perfect harmony between his two roles.”

Day 11

12/7/22

RETURN TO THE LORD

Read: Hosea 6:1-6

Today, the prophet implores that we return to the Lord so that He may restore a right relationship with us. God loves us and desires that we love him above all else. His correction in our lives is good for us and is intended to draw us closer to him.

As we plan our schedules this week, we can seek the Father, intentionally creating space to spend time with him through praying and his Word. We can prioritize him amidst the busy season.

Hosea 6:6 (NLT)

As you make time for your Savior, you can examine

heart and invite Jesus to take the position of number one.

Prayer: Lord, I want you to be my greatest desire. Help me to return to you and draw closer to you. Amen.

“I want you to show love, not offer sacrifices. I want you to know me more than I want burnt offerings.”

the desires of your

Day 12

12/8/22

HE IS FAITHFUL

Read: Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26

The scripture for today proudly proclaims the faithfulness of God. As we read about the promise God made to King David to uphold his royal line, we realize the fulfillment in Jesus, our forever King. God’s promises are unbreakable.

His faithfulness empowers us to live unafraid. We can walk boldly and confidently forward when God asks us to do something, because he has promised to be with us and he will never fail.

Psalm 89:1 (NLT)

As you look with anticipation to the coming of our Faithful King, you can ask God to begin to show you how you can make a difference for the kingdom. You can ask him to give you opportunities to serve those around you.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your faithfulness. Please make my heart as steadfast, and let me be a faithful servant for you. Amen.

“I will sing of the Lord’s unfailing love forever! Young and old will hear of your faithfulness.”

Day 13

12/9/22

THE RIGHTOUS BRANCH

Read: Jeremiah 23:3-6

In this passage, the prophet proclaims that a Branch from King David’s line will rise up and rule with righteousness. Jesus is that branch, symbolizing that he will be our Messiah. We can be assured that our Savior is just and will do what is right.

As we begin to understand the righteousness of Jesus, we can trust him to act on our behalf. We do not need to seek revenge or payback of any kind when we are wronged on earth, for our Messiah will take care of us.

Jeremiah 23:5b (NLT)

As you think about the righteousness of Jesus, begin to hand him your toughest situations and ask him to right all of the wrongs.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to trust you as the Righteous Branch. Thank you for being wise and doing what is right and just Amen

“He will be a King who rules with wisdom. He will do what is just and right throughout the land”

Day 14

12/10/22

BANNER OF SALVATION

Read: Isaiah 11:1-10

Today’s reading paints an incredible picture of our Banner of Salvation, Jesus. His kingdom and his reign will be like no other. Salvation will be extended to include all peoples, for he will draw all nations to himself and peace will flourish in the land. The earth will be filled with people who know the Lord.

We can praise God for the salvation that is available to the whole world through Jesus Christ. We can invite others into a relationship with him, introducing them to a King like no other.

Isaiah 11:10 (NLT) “In that day the heir to David’s throne will be a banner of Salvation to all the world. The nations will rally to him and the land where he lives will be a glorious place.”

As you reflect on the Lord, who is your Banner, begin to think of people you can invite to church this holiday season.

Prayer: Lord, I desire to build your kingdom. Give me courage to invite others to church and to share my faith. Amen.

Day 15

12/11/22

SING FOR JOY

Read: Isaiah 35:1-10

The passage today details the incredible joy all of creation will exude at the coming of Jesus. Nature will sing and people will leap for joy when they experience the restoration of Jesus in their lives. Sorrow and mourning will no longer be with us.

We can join with creation in joyful praise and worship. As Jesus works to redeem us, we can sing songs to the one who is our joy.

Isaiah 35:10 (NLT) “Those who have been ransomed by the Lord will return. They will enter Jerusalem singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Sorrow and mourning will disappear, and they will be filled with joy and gladness.”

As the day draws near to celebrate Christ’s birth, you can take time in your day to lift a joyous song to the Lord.

Prayer: Lord, what joy for those who belong to you. Thank you for working to redeem me. Amen.

Day 16

12/12/22

RESTORE YOUR BLESSING

Read: Psalm 85:1-13

In the reading for today, the Psalmist pleads with the Lord to shower mercy on his people and restore his blessing to them. God’s people had been unfaithful, and God allowed them to experience his wrath. The Psalmist calls upon the restoration work God has done in the past and he points to a future blessing in the coming of the Messiah.

The Lord blesses his faithful people with peace when they turn from their foolish, sinful ways and seek him. We can empty ourselves of worldly distractions and foolishness and ask God to fill us.

Psalm 85:8 (NLT)

Reflect on the blessings the Lord has given you and thank him

restoring you.

Prayer: Lord, you are full of unfailing love and faithfulness. Let my heart overflow at the thought of all of your blessings for me. Amen.

"I listen carefully to what God the Lord is saying, for he speaks peace to his faithful people. But let them not return to their foolish ways.”

for

Day 17

12/13/22

PREPARE THE WAY

Read: Isaiah 40:1-11

In today’s scripture, the Lord is about to reveal himself to his chosen people after a period of hiding himself from them for their disobedience. The Psalmist seeks to comfort them because of what they have endured and encourage them to clear the way for the coming Savior. Their messiah will be both gentle and powerful.

We can prepare our hearts and unclutter our minds during this season so the Lord can fill us up with his glory. Not only can we make room, but we can make sure our lives are in alignment with his Word making a straight pathway for him to enter.

Isaiah 40:3b

As you prepare the way for the Lord in your heart, you can renounce the things in your life that are not pleasing to him.

Prayer: Lord, help me to prepare the way for you to fill my heart and my mind. Make me new. Amen.

(NLT) “”Clear the way through the wilderness for the Lord! Make a straight highway through the wasteland for our God!”

Day 18

12/14/22

LIGHT OF THE WORLD

Read: John 1:1-8

Today in the reading, we focus on how Jesus is the light of the world and how he illuminates the Father for us. He is our creator and he breathed life into every living thing, and from him, we see the glory of God. His light shines in the darkness and nothing can overcome it.

We can choose to be a light in the dark world, letting those around us see the hope of our Savior in both our actions and words. We can be intentional to love others sacrificially.

John 1:5 (NLT) “The

As you enjoy the Christmas lights this season, think of someone you can be a light to and reach out to them.

Prayer: Lord, You are the light of the World. Help me to shine in the darkness, that others may see your glory and be saved.”

light shines in the darkness and the darkness can never extinguish it.”

Day 19

12/15/22

THE CHOSEN SERVANT

Read: Isaiah 49:1-7

In the passage for today the focus is on the Chosen Servant of the Lord, Jesus. He is described as faithful, a weapon of truth, and filled with God’s strength. As the servant, he will bring salvation to the ends of the earth. At first Jesus will be rejected, but because of the Sovereign Lord, he will reign forever.

We are called to be servants of the Lord. We can humbly ask God to accomplish his purposes in us and use us however he needs for his glory. We can be willing to do whatever he requires of us, even if the world rejects us for it.

Isaiah 49:3

As you offer your life to the Lord, ask him for opportunities to serve those around you and meet the needs of others in practical ways.

Prayer: Lord, make me a servant like Jesus was. Use me to bring your salvation to the ends of the earth and bring glory to your name. Amen.

“You are my servant, Israel, and you will bring me glory.”

Day 20

12/16/22

A WONDERFUL KING

Read: Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19

In today’s reading, the Psalmist describes a Wonderful King; one who is righteous, just and generous with his people. He reigns from sea to sea. His kingdom flourishes under his reign and his glory fills the earth. Jesus does wonderful things for us. The presence of Jesus in our lives is as refreshing as the spring rain on freshly cut grass or the showers that water the earth. He causes us to flourish. We can give praise to our King, who alone does wonderful things for us.

Psalm 72:19 (NLT) "Praise his glorious name forever! Let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen.”

As you spend time with your Savior, ask him to refresh your soul. Then, praise him for his wonderful kindness to you.

Prayer: Lord, the glory of your righteousness is worthy to be praised. Thank you for how you refresh me in hard seasons. I worship you, my Wonderful King. Amen.

Day 21

12/17/22

JOY IN GOD'S HOUSE

Read: Psalm 122: 1-9

The Psalmist for today announces the joy of taking a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, the city known as the House of God. A place of refuge and safety, God’s house was a beacon of peace for his people. They would journey there in order to give him thanks and worship him. The journey would fill them with joy.

We can also make it a priority to go to God’s house, spending time with him and giving him thanks for all of the things he has done for us. Time with God will fill our hearts with joy.

Psalm 122:1 (NLT) “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’”

As you enjoy all of the activities of the holiday season, you can make time to go to the Lord’s house and experience the richness of joy that flows from his presence.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the joy that is found in you alone. Help me to keep seeking you. Amen.

Day 22

12/18/22

IMMANUEL, GOD WITH US

Read: Matthew 1:18-25

In today’s passage, we witness the miraculous birth of the Messiah to Mary and Joseph. Conceived through the power of the Holy Spirit, baby Jesus fulfilled the words of the Prophet, Isaiah. Jesus was Immanuel, God with us.

God is still with us today. His Holy Spirit comes and dwells in us when we believe Jesus died for our sins and rose from the dead. The Holy Spirit is given to guide us and lead us into all truth We can listen to his promptings and obey his nudgings.

Matthew 1:23 (NLT)

As you spend time in prayer, take time to listen for the Spirit’s quiet voice and promptings to you

Prayer: Lord, lead me by the power of your Holy Spirit. Help me to hear your voice. Thank you for always being with me. Amen.

“Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means, ‘God is with us.”

Day 23

12/19/22

PRINCE OF PEACE

Read: Isaiah 9:2-7

In the reading today, we encounter a prophecy about a great light that shines in the darkness and we receive the news that our Savior is born! His name is Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. His rule and his peace will never end. He is Jesus!

We can have peace in our hearts when we walk with Jesus, remembering all he has done for us He made a way for us to experience the peace of God that transcends understanding We can fix our eyes on his attributes instead of our circumstances, trusting in the One who is all we need

Isaiah 9:7a (NLT) “His government and its peace will never end.”

As you reflect on the title of ‘Prince of Peace,’ begin to pray for others to experience the life-changing peace that comes only from Jesus.

Prayer: Lord, you are all that I need. Thank you for being the Prince of Peace. Help me to live in the abundance of your peace all of my days. Amen.

Day 24

12/20/22

MORNING LIGHT FROM HEAVEN

Read: Luke 1:67-80

Today’s reading is a prophecy from Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist. He was filled with the Holy Spirit after the birth of his son and he proclaimed the arrival of the morning light from heaven. When Jesus is born, he will give light to those sitting in darkness and become a guide to lead us on the path of peace. He is the promised Savior.

Much like Zechariah announced the coming Messiah, we can raise our voices to share hope with those around us. We can tell people how to find salvation in Jesus through the forgiveness of their sins, just like John the Baptist did.

Luke 1:67-80 (NLT) “Because of God’s tender mercy, the morning light of heaven

As you remember the light of Jesus in your life, pray for God to use you to shine a light for others.

Prayer: Lord, make me a beacon of light to those around me, pointing others to you. Amen.

is about to break upon us,”

Day 25

12/21/22

JESUS IS GREATER

Read: Mark 1:1-8

In the scripture for today, John the Baptist is introduced as the one who will prepare the way for the Messiah. Though his role is important, he explains that Jesus is greater. He is so much greater, in fact, that John is not even worthy to untie his sandals. There is no one greater than Jesus.

While we do the work God has purposed us to do, we can exalt Jesus and humble ourselves underneath him, willing to give him all the glory. We can consider ourselves to be like a slave to a master.

Mark 1:7 (NLT) “Someone

-

soon who

As you contemplate the greatness of Jesus, you can ask him to use you for his glory.

Prayer: Lord, there is no one greater than you. I am not worthy, but please use me to accomplish your purposes. Amen.

is coming

is greater than I am

so much greater that I’m not worthy to stoop down like a slave and untie the straps of his sandals.”

Day 27

12/23/22

DO NOT BE AFRAID

Read: Luke 1:26-36

In the passage for today, the angel Gabriel visits Mary and reveals God’s plan for sending his son to earth. Mary is frightened at first, but the angel calms her worries. The Holy Spirit will rest on her and she will give birth to a son, Jesus. God will do the impossible in her so that he can give the world a Savior.

God is able to do all things, so we do not need to be afraid. We can hand our fears over to him and trust whatever he asks us to do

Luke 1:30 (NLT) “‘Don’t be afraid, Mary,’ the angel told her. ‘For you have found favor with God.’”

As you reflect on God’s miraculous ways, you can pray for a heart that does not fear his plan for your life.

Prayer: Lord, your ways are beyond comprehension. Help me to trust you no matter the circumstance. Amen.

Day 28

12/24/22

WORTHY OF PRAISE

Read: Luke 1:46b-55

In today’s scripture, Mary lifts a song of praise to God, rejoicing for all he is going to do for his people. God will redeem them and lift them out of the pit, for he is merciful. Her response is full of faith in what the Lord has just promised to her. She knows God is worthy of her praise.

Like Mary, we can consider all the good things the Lord has done for us and lift a song of praise to him. He is the one who made a way for us to be restored, and he is worthy of our song.

Luke 1:46b-47 (NLT) “Oh how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”

On this hallowed eve, you can praise God through song for the gift of Jesus. Worship him because of his great love for his people.

Prayer: Lord, you are holy, merciful, and mighty. You are worthy of my praise. Amen.

Day 29

12/25/22

PEACE ON EARTH

Read: Luke 2:1-20

The reading for today sets us in the story of the glorious birth of our Savior, Jesus. In celebration of the blessed event, the angel of the Lord appears to the Shepherds, inviting them to see the newborn baby. Jesus is the Messiah, the spotless lamb of God, sent to earth to atone for our sins He would one day make peace between God and man.

Jesus made a way for peace to come to earth. We can worship him like the angels did, praising him for the price he paid for us to be redeemed. Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.

Luke 2:14 (NLT)

As you celebrate today, you can remember that peace is yours because a baby came to earth. You can rejoice in the birth of your Savior.

Prayer: Lord, Thank you for the gift of your son I worship you as I celebrate the peace that entered the world on this day. Amen.

"Glory to God in the highest heaven and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”