Advent Reality: Encountering the King Changes Our Direction

The wise men remind us that true worship reorients our path. After meeting the newborn King, they “departed to their own country by another way” (Matthew 2:1–12). Real encounters with Jesus produce transformation—we aren’t left the same. We move from self-rule to Christ’s authority, from our own plan to God’s sovereign plan, from restless desire to a deeper desire for God.

This season, don’t just admire the manger. Adore the King. Put Him on the throne of your decisions, desires, and daily routines. When Jesus is King, life’s complexity simplifies: follow Him, obey His Word, and trust His heart.

The Cross: Power Revealed in Weakness

The coronation of Jesus happened not with a golden crown but with a crown of thorns. At the cross, His identity as King was mocked—and yet vindicated by His self-giving love and resurrection. The world reads the cross as weakness; Scripture reveals it as God’s wise plan to save us. When life doesn’t make sense, remember: the God who brought salvation through apparent defeat can be trusted with your story, too (Romans 8:28).

This paradox steadies us in trials. If His power accomplished redemption through suffering, He can bring purpose through yours. Place your trust in the crucified and risen King.

Who Gets the Credit for Your Success?

Year-end wins tempt us to quietly move ourselves onto the throne. But under God’s sovereignty, every achievement is a gift of grace—opportunities, relationships, health, and insight all flow from His provision and love. Steward your success with humility:

• Confess that God’s power sustains your work.
• Give thanks publicly and privately—credit the Giver, not the gift.
• Leverage influence for the gospel and the good of others.
• Surrender outcomes and seek His will for the next step, not just the next win.

Forgiveness, Emotions, and the Long Road of Healing

In family rooms and office parties, old hurts can resurface. Biblically, forgiveness is a decisive act grounded in God’s mercy (1 John 1:9). But honest believers admit that emotions don’t always catch up overnight. That doesn’t mean forgiveness “didn’t work.” It means sanctification is a process.

Here’s a faithful path forward under Christ’s lordship:

• Decide to forgive as an act of obedience—release the debt to God.
• Pray for your offender’s good; ask the Lord to align your emotions with your decision.
• Seek wisdom about reconciliation—sometimes trust must be rebuilt.
• Persevere when feelings resurface; forgiveness is the door, and emotional healing often walks through slowly.

Guarded by God’s Power

Between Christmas and the new year, anxieties can spike. Scripture promises that those who belong to Christ are “being guarded by God’s power through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed” (1 Peter 1:3–5). Your hope isn’t self-protection—it is divine protection. The Lord who calls you to surrender also protects you as you walk in obedience.

Let that assurance quiet your heart. You are not carrying the weight of your future. The King who came is the King who keeps you. Jesus is King now and forever.

Putting Jesus on the Throne Today

What does practical lordship look like this week? Consider these steps:

• Worship before work. Begin the day with Scripture and prayer. Let His voice set your agenda.
• Make the “one decision.” Reaffirm: “Jesus, You are King over this choice.” Then act accordingly (Luke 9:23).
• Give thanks for successes. Name the ways God’s provision and sovereignty showed up.
• Practice mercy. Choose forgiveness and ask the Spirit to shepherd your emotions.
• Rest in His protection. When fear rises, repeat 1 Peter 1:5 and entrust the outcome to His power.

Why Jesus’ Identity Changes Everything

If Jesus is only a moral guide, you can admire Him and keep your autonomy. But if He is the incarnate Son, God in the flesh, risen Lord and rightful King, then the only sane response is worship, surrender, and obedience. Doctrine fuels discipleship: what we confess about Christ determines how we live under Christ. As we place Him on the throne, we discover unexpected peace, renewed purpose, and resilient hope. Jesus is King—let that truth lead every day.

A Simple Prayer of Surrender

Lord Jesus, You are King and God. I surrender the throne of my heart to You. Reorder my desires, my decisions, and my definitions of success. Teach me to forgive as I have been forgiven. Guard me by Your power, and lead me in Your good plan. I trust You—today and in the year ahead. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

• Where have I been taking the credit that belongs to God?
• What decision this week most needs to be made under Christ’s lordship?
• Whom do I need to forgive, and how will I pursue ongoing healing?
• How does God’s promise to protect me reshape my fears right now?

Because Jesus is King, one surrendered decision can make you never the same again. Place Him on the throne—and let every other decision fall into place under His wise, loving, and sovereign care.

See This Related Post: From Stable to Throne: Immaculate Birth to Heir of all things