Today’s devotional is offered by Katelyn Smith. Today’s devotional is offered by Katelyn Smith. 

But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. – 1 Peter 4.1

One of the things I am most thankful for is the many opportunities I have had to travel in my life and that God continues to grant me opportunities to travel often. However, I must clarify that when I say I love to travel, I am referring to the joy and excitement of being in a new destination.

I imagine most people would agree that when I say that I love to travel that usually doesn’t mean the actual traveling. The journey, can be a very long, tiring process and sometimes I get very anxious when I travel, especially when I am alone. “What if I don’t get to the gate in time, what if they lose my bags, what if I spend too long in customs and miss my connecting flight, what if the plane falls out of the sky?” Finding peace while traveling sometimes is extremely difficult, and I say several little prayers throughout my journey. It helps to focus on the destination and how I’ll have such a wonderful time when I’m there. My peace comes from knowing God is in control.

Mary and Joseph, I imagine, had a lot of travel anxiety as they journeyed to Bethlehem. As they followed, the path I am sure countless questions ran through their minds. They may have felt extremely anxious, but God was there with them. God had made an intricate, perfect plan and knowing this gave Mary and Joseph peace. Knowing that God is in control and that He will help us to our destination is assuring. Constantly speaking with God, not only as we travel, but all the time puts peace into our hearts as we give all of our concerns and doubts over to him.

During this Advent season as we journey to Christmas, the day of Christ’s birth, there are preparations to be made, and there will be traveling too. Remember that God is always with you, protecting and guiding you. God has an amazing plan and will help guide us safely to our destination. While we are on the journey, He will give us peace and when we rest in Him.

Prayer: Lord, help us to find hope in the journey and peace in our destinations. May we feel your presence, comfort, and love as we follow your guidance. Amen

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
-John 14.27