The Gift of Stillness: A December Devotional

“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Psalm 46:10

For years, I rushed through the ‘-ber months’ – September, October, November, and December – seeing them as a blur of responsibilities and commitments. As a teacher, these months meant lesson plans, parent conferences, holiday programs, and endless grading, all while trying to keep up with personal holiday preparations. I thought I disliked this season, but now I realize I was simply moving too fast to see its glory.

Then came the gift of early retirement, and with it, the precious opportunity to slow down. What a revelation it has been! Like scales falling from my eyes, I’ve discovered the magnificent beauty of these months I once rushed through. September now unfolds like a masterpiece, with God’s artistic hand painting the leaves in brilliant golds and crimsons. October brings the delight of children’s laughter and creative costumes. November allows time to truly count our blessings and savor family gatherings. And now, December arrives not as a frantic race to the finish line, but as a sacred season to celebrate our Savior’s birth.

This personal transformation has taught me something profound about God’s nature. Sometimes it takes stepping away from life’s constant motion to truly see His handiwork. Like Mary, who “kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19), we need moments of quiet contemplation to fully grasp the wonder of Emmanuel – God with us.

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 9:6

The first Christmas itself was marked not by hurry, but by holy stillness. While Bethlehem buzzed with census activity, the most momentous event in history unfolded in a quiet stable. The shepherds encountered glory not in the bustling marketplace, but in the stillness of their nightwatch. The wise men found their treasure not in palace halls, but by following a star through silent nights.

This season has shown me that slowing down isn’t just about rest – it’s about recognition. When we pause our endless doing, we create space to simply be with our Creator. In the quiet moments between activities, we can hear His voice more clearly. As nature settles into winter’s rest, we too are invited to find peace in His presence.

The Christmas story reminds us that God often works most powerfully in moments of stillness. The same stars that guided the wise men still shine above us, though we rarely pause to look up. The same holy presence that filled that humble stable still seeks to fill our hearts, if we’ll make room.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of slowing down to see Your glory. Like the transformation You’ve worked in my heart toward these precious months, transform our busy hearts to appreciate Your presence in every season. Help us find moments of holy stillness amid the festival of lights and activity. Thank You for Your Son, our Prince of Peace, who makes all things new. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection Questions:

What beauty might God be waiting to show you if you slowed down to look?
How has your perspective on certain seasons or situations changed when you’ve taken time to truly see them?
Where do you most need to create space for stillness this month?