Philippians 4:4-6 (NRSV)
Read Philippians 4:4-6 on biblegateway.com
Verse 4Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Verse 5Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Verse 6Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Devotion
The Lord is near: This is the message of Advent. No matter where you are, no matter what doubts and worries and fears keep you up at night or fill you with anxiety during the day, the Savior is close at hand. Do not worry. Do not be afraid. You are not alone. The Lord is near.
Nestled in the middle of this wonderful, familiar passage of Philippians are these words of unbelievable promise and comfort. They are for the single person dreading facing the holidays alone. They are for low-income workers who don’t have enough to buy presents for their children. They are for the grieving, who can't imagine a family dinner with an empty chair at the table. They are for anyone who finds their hearts filled with longing. The Lord is near. And He will give you peace.
Prayer
Fill us with your peace, O Lord, and draw near to us today. Amen.