The Christmas season is a powerful and unique time of year to remember that Jesus came to make a way for us to be near God. In his life, death, and resurrection, Jesus built a bridge between us and God allowing us to have continual, unhindered communion with our Creator. But God can’t force us into nearness with him. Even as believers filled with the Holy Spirit, we can choose to live as if God is still far off. So this Christmas season, may we choose to open our hearts to the living God that we might experience fullness of joy in his loving presence.

Our Scripture for today comes from James 4:8, and today's worship is Draw Near by Bethel Music featuring Jeremy Riddle.

First15 is a daily devotional written and recorded by Craig Denison. If you'd like to give to support First15 and help us reach our $100,000 goal by the end of this year, click here to visit our giving page. To learn more about the First15 app, books, blogs, videos and our other resources, please visit first15.org. You can always reach out to us on our contact page on the website.