Scriptures

Isaiah 9:6-7 AMPC

[6] For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father [of Eternity], Prince of Peace.
[7] Of the increase of His government and of peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from the [latter] time forth, even forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

Galatians 6:9 AMPC

And let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint.

Devotional

Jesus’ birth is a family story for the Last Days.

God chose to manifest himself to humanity as an intimate savior at a time when Roman armies occupied and would eventually invade and destroy Jerusalem and all of Judea.

Jesus chose to build His Church during Israel’s worst of times.

History records Jesus’ death, resurrection, and the emergence of the first-century Church on the day of Pentecost all took place during political and civil upheaval.

Does this not describe the times we live in as we await the Lord’s return?

As we prepare ourselves for Jesus’ return, we, too, are witnessing an increase in foreign hostilities targeting the traditional, Christ-centered family.

But now, as then, God will display a mighty outpouring of his Spirit.

The Church is often described using familial terms: brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers.

So Jesus chose to build His covenant family despite cultural and local circumstances!

Let us encourage ourselves during fearful days with expectant faith in God’s ability to fulfill His promises for His covenant people!

He is our Wondrous Counselor, providing guidance for all we need today.

He is our Mighty God, fighting our battles and defending the integrity of our family.

He is the Prince of Peace, providing calm, assurance, and grace to withstand the evil day.

And through His sovereignty and zeal, He will show Himself to be the One entirely in control of all current events.

Prayer

Jesus, today, as we go out into our broken, hurting, and dark world, we pray you will guard our unity and love for one another.

We ask for and claim your grace to be lights in the darkness, full of faith in your strength, goodness, and sovereignty.

Give us eyes to see as You see and hope in your promises despite whatever happens today.

Originally published: December 11, 2021