12-Day Advent Devotional for Familiesنموونە

Day 1 - The Promise: A Warrior-Savior

The story of Christmas did not start with a manger in Bethlehem. It began long before, in the garden of Eden. The enemy of God, Satan, tempted Adam and Eve to trust him and doubt God. Tragically, Adam and Eve obeyed the Satanic snake over the good Creator.

But God was not far away. He pronounced a sentence on Satan. He told the devil that Eve’s “offspring” would come (many years later) and war against him. He promised the devil that the warrior would “bruise [his] head,” striking a death blow against him. This is the Bible’s first promise of salvation, redemption, and hope. Praise God for his power over the devil!

The warrior, however, would suffer a terrible price. The devil would “bruise his heel,” an injury of the worst pain and suffering. Many years later, Jesus came to earth as a baby, grew up, and eventually died on a Roman cross. He did this to satisfy the Father’s wrath and cleanse us from all our sins—the greatest gift anyone could ever give!

Sinners are forgiven. Satan has been defeated.

As we bake cookies, spend time with family, and sing carols, we remember the true heart of Christmas; God sent a warrior-savior—Jesus. He has triumphed over the devil and is working for our eternal good. We have Christmas joy because God has kept his ancient promise.

Prayer:

Father, thank you for the promise of Jesus. Thank you that you have won the victory over Satan through the cross and empty tomb. Give us great joy in knowing that you are a promise-making and promise-keeping God! Help us to trust in you all our days, knowing how strong and good you are.

In Jesus’ name, amen.