Free Reading Plans and Devotionals related to Matthew 2:9

Christmas is supposed to be a season of joy –– but what exactly is joy and how do you choose it when the world is filled with hurt and hardship? Discover what “joy to the world” really means by immersing yourself in the Christmas story with this special, 7-day Christmas Plan.

The Christmas story is one surprise after another. But sometimes the details become so familiar that they lose their impact. These short prayer devotionals help you to dwell deeply on the most unexpected and significant event in history: that God himself became one of us. Each prayer is written by David Mathis, executive editor for desiringGod.org and pastor at Cities Church in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

It seems we’re all in need of a good hug, real connection, and something delightful to celebrate right now. Our prayer is that this Advent devotional will offer you and your family a way to connect, learn about the real Christmas story, and celebrate Jesus’s birth with new traditions, dinnertime stories, bedtime conversations, and family activities. We hope this Christmas “hug” brings beautiful memories to your home this Advent season!

Much more than a simple reading plan, this is a real challenge it help you enter into a life as a disciple of Christ. To be disciple is to walk with Jesus, to let Him teach us, to transform us and to learn to do what He does. And it's like Him walking in victory.

The Magi’s role in the Christmas narrative resonates across the centuries. However, their spiritual and historical significance reaches far beyond the decorative mangers and religious portrayal as the “three wise men.” In looking at the way God used the Magi as part of His redemptive plan, you will see their story with new eyes.

Jesus is more than a role model or powerful historical figure. He is our hope and our joy. Our rock and our crown. In this plan, best-selling author Ray Comfort shares devotions from My Comfort Is Jesus to help you commit your day to the light of the world.

Discover the heart of Jesus this Christmas season as we follow the star in this seven-day devotional! The star led the Magi as they followed that glowing light for many days before it finally stopped over the place Jesus was, and there they worshipped Him. Discovering Jesus' heart means shining the light of His love this Christmas season, so others can follow that glow and find Him, too.

April Snook gives a special glance at the holiday season with Inside Christmas: Life With Emmanuel, God With Us. The 7-day devotional reading plan shares 7 inside (spirit, soul and body) applications from inside the Christmas story. From no room at the inn to making room within and becoming the INKeeper of your own heart, learn to do life with God, Emmanuel, God with us.

In Charles Wesley’s famous Christmas hymn, “Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus,” we sing that Jesus is the joy of every longing heart. This Advent, discover how the divine orchestration of human events and various responses to his coming, exposes the longing of our hearts. From kings and rulers to shepherds and expectant virgins, Jesus’ advent reveals what we treasure. Find him the joy of your heart this Christmas.

Hope has come into the world! It’s Jesus—God with us! At this time of the year, we celebrate the greatest Miracle ever. It came in a small package and had an eternal impact on you and me. Will you come and spend some time reflecting and preparing your heart for this amazing Emmanuel—God who is with us?