Following Jesus Through the First Christmas: 25 Days of Advent TruthsНамуна

When the wise men arrived in Jerusalem asking, “Where is the one born King of the Jews?” Herod’s first reaction wasn’t joy.

It was fear.

Herod had everything the world said mattered—status, influence, wealth, control. But one baby in a manger sent him spiraling.

His identity was built on a fragile kingdom, and fragile kingdoms always demand protection.

It’s easy to see ourselves in that.

We build fragile kingdoms too—places where we rely on our own strength, control, or reputation to feel secure. We protect our image, our comfort, our plans.

And like Herod, we hold them tight, afraid of what might happen if we let go.

Jesus frees us from the exhausting need to rule our own worlds and invites us to rest under His. Every throne we step off of makes more room for His peace to reign in our lives.

So ask yourself today: What are you protecting that’s keeping you from trusting Him completely?

When we surrender our “kingdoms” to Him, we will find the freedom we've been searching for.

Pray:

Jesus, show me the thrones I’ve built in my life—the places I cling to control, image, or my own plans. Help me surrender what was never mine to keep. Rule in my heart and bring the peace that comes from trusting You alone. Amen.

Talk about it:

What’s one “kingdom” you tend to protect—control, approval, plans, or possessions? How can you make more room for Jesus to rule in that area this week?

Worship:

Take a few minutes today to sit with this truth in song. Listen to Holy Forever by Bethel Music. Search for Following Jesus Through the First Christmas on Spotify by Biltmore Church for the full playlist.