I shared some reflections a few weeks ago. Although I've been a Bible learner and disciple of Christ for many years, I do not yet have this walk figured out. It's filled with missteps and mistakes, and even when I re-read some of my prior posts, I can see how I could have represented the truth more fully and adequately. It is humbling to know that God still brings truth even in our tiny bit of understanding.
Today, we start a Bible study I've refused to write for months. It is a chapter out of my dark soul and a testament to the bright communion God showed me over a long, swarthy night. I know I need to sit still and get some of the messy, messy work God has graciously done down on paper. I dread it and welcome it all in one.
John 10:10 tells us that the thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. During this time in Nehemiah, the stealing, killing, and destroying were occurring because of broken walls; and spiritually, it can happen to us if we are not appropriately guarded. How do we ensure the walls in our life are adequately constructed and strong? God provides those answers in this chapter!
No matter how you choose to celebrate Christ this season, let the Messiah–not the mayhem–reign in your heart. May you be richly blessed in Him!
Read: Matthew 2:13—14
13 When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” 14 So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, 15 where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called my son.”
Reflect: God is well ahead of man’s plan. God had already provided money for the trip from the gifts of the magi, and He warned Joseph early enough to flee from Herod’s wrath. Herod wanted to protect his reign, and he went to horrific lengths to do so (by killing boys under the age of two). Trust that when God calls you out of situations, stretches you beyond your perimeter of comfort, or puts you in above your head—He will provide.
Respond: Lord, no life goes unseen by You. Thank You for holding me in the palm of Your hand and walking with me through this road of life. It has many bumps and unexpected twists, but I trust that You go before me and You have all the provisions in place.
Tot Time: Here’s a possible discussion starter with your kids: Herod wanted to protect his power and what was “his.” What special toys or things do you have that you protect or don’t want others to touch? What does God teach us regarding those things?
