In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.” Luke 1:26-33
Have you read the Christmas story in your Bible recently? We have a lot to celebrate. I like to read the story of Christ’s birth several times during this season.
I understand how lonely these days are. I know how your heart may be hurting.
What is your greatest fear right now? You may be facing a court date this month. Others are watching their spouse plan their wedding to someone else. I know of many people facing health problems, unemployment, financial obstacles, and other things besides their marriage problems.
You may be dealing with fear.
Fear of the future.
Fear of the unknown.
Fear of what this trial is doing to your family.
Fear of how you will provide for your family.
Throughout the Bible, God speaks to His children, “Do not be afraid.” That was the message for them and you! “Good News!”
The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? The Lord is with me; he is my helper. I look in triumph on my enemies. Psalm 118:6-7
Do not be afraid! God is in control of your life. Whatever happens has been filtered through the mighty hands of God. The Lord has spoken to His children since the beginning, giving them instructions and then a promise.
May you always remember that the Lord has His plan for your family. He wants you to follow Him. This Lord’s Day, seek the Lord and let Him calm all your fears. Remember, the Lord had a plan for Mary and Joseph far beyond what they could imagine.
In the quietness of your heart, I pray that you will hear God’s still, small voice, reassuring you; “Do not be afraid, dear one, you have found favor with God, your marriage will be healed. This will happen for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified.
Walk in faith and victory! You are a child of God, so do not be afraid!
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
God bless,
UNWRAPPING THE NAMES OF JESUS: AN ADVENT DEVOTIONAL
Many believe Christmas is about Jesus, but few prepare their hearts to celebrate Him. Unwrapping the Names of Jesus helps by guiding readers through four weeks of Advent: Hope, Preparation, Joy, and Love.
With short devotionals, family activities, and daily reflections on Jesus’ names, this book helps hearts focus on Him. By Christmas, readers are ready to truly worship Christ the Lord.
