5 Day Devo

The Journey of Seeking

Day 1: Coming as We Are

Reading: Matthew 2:1-12

Devotional: The Magi were outsiders and foreigners. They practiced magic, a profession condemned in Jewish law. Yet they were among the first to worship Jesus. The Magi proclaim the good news of Christmas: God doesn't wait for us to be perfect before welcoming us. In the birth of Jesus, God meets us where we are. Perhaps you feel unqualified to approach God, your doubts too many, your knowledge too limited, or your past too messy. The Magi teach us that God welcomes seekers, regardless of their starting point. What matters isn't where you've been, but that you're willing to journey toward Christ. Today, bring yourself—questions, doubts, and all—to Jesus.

Day 2: Following the Light

Reading: Psalm 119:105-112

Devotional: The Magi followed a star, but ultimately needed Scripture to find the Messiah's location. We all follow various "stars": career success, relationships, wealth. We hope they'll illuminate life's meaning. Yet these lights often prove inadequate for the questions we face. God's Word is a more reliable guide, a "lamp to our feet and light to our path." Unlike the dim and distant stars we chase, Scripture draws us directly to Christ Himself. What "stars" have you been following? Are they leading you toward or away from Jesus? Today, consider how God's Word provides clearer direction than the worldly wisdom you've relied upon. Let Scripture become your guide.

Day 3: The Journey Requires Movement

Reading: Hebrews 11:8-16

Devotional: The Magi didn't stay home. They ventured forth on a long, uncertain journey. King Herod, by contrast, remained locked behind palace walls, threatened by what he couldn't control. Faith requires movement, a willingness to leave our comfortable and familiar territories. Abraham left his homeland without knowing his destination. The Magi traveled without certainty of what they'd find. Spiritual growth rarely happens in stagnation. It requires us to step forward, even when the path isn't entirely clear. What is God calling you to leave behind? What journey of faith have you been avoiding because it feels too uncertain? Today, consider taking one small step toward the Christ Child, trusting God’s guidance and provision along the way.

Day 4: Bringing What We Have

Reading: 2 Corinthians 8:1-12

Devotional: The Magi brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These were precious gifts, all the Magi had to offer. You may feel your gifts are inadequate: your faith too small, your knowledge too limited, your resources too meager. But Christ doesn't measure our offerings by worldly standards. He welcomes what we bring when offered in faith. Your doubts, prayers, and acts of obedience matter to God. You don't need exceptional spiritual gifts or heroic faith. You need only to bring what you have. What are you withholding because you think it's not enough? Today, lay it at Jesus' feet.

Day 5: Returning a Different Way

Reading: Romans 12:1-2

Devotional: After encountering Jesus, the Magi "returned home by another route." This new way wasn't merely geographical. The Christ Child transformed the Magi. Every encounter with Christ changes us, and we cannot return to life as usual. The journey to Jesus may begin with seeking answers to life's pressures, but it ends with transformation. We come burdened and leave unburdened. We come confused and go home with purpose. We come empty and leave filled with His presence. As you've journeyed through this Christmas season, how has Christ changed you? What "different way" is he calling you to walk? Today, offer yourself as a living sacrifice, allowing God to transform your mind and renew your path forward.