God is working providentially to bring about His plan of redemption, and we have seen that whether we realize it or not, we are a part of His accomplishing that plan. As we approach the new year, ask yourself how is that plan working out in your life. Some things we do, simply because it is our responsibility. For example, in Luke 2 Joseph went to Bethlehem, because the governing body made it a requirement, yet according to Micah 5:2 that was the plan of God. Some things we do because we are able. We need to remember that God does not ask us to do anything that we are not capable of doing. If God wants us to do something, He also gives us the ability to accomplish what He places before us. The Bible is full of examples of God working in unique ways to accomplish His tasks, through the lives of those who are able. For example, in 1 Samuel 17, God used a young man to kill a giant, when no one thought it could happen. Sometimes, God places us in situations where we can only do what we have to do. These times usually require … READ MORE

When we think of the incarnation of God, we forget the tremendous sacrifice that was made by Joseph and Mary in this process. Yet, they did so willingly, because they were willing to follow God no matter what the cost. The virgin conception and birth seemed to be illogical to the world (and still does), yet they understood that “all things are possible with God” As we go about our lives, we need to recognize that following the plan and purposes of God can at times can be hard and difficult. Our enemies will often tempt us to take the “easy” path, but the way of the Lord leads to a peace and satisfaction that goes against the cultural direction of the world. Joseph and Mary followed the Lord willingly, because they understood that God always has a bigger picture than “me” in mind with what He allows in our lives. May we choose to willingly submit to the plan and purpose of God as we face the new year. … READ MORE

In Luke 2:1, we see that Caesar Augustus, and Quirinius were all a part of the plan of God in the incarnation of Christ. With this text we are reminded that God is working behind the scenes to make His plan fit perfectly into the reality of the world situation. There are times when we are involved in some great things without ever recognizing our part in the plan. What a comfort it should be to know that God is in the process of using the decisions that ungodly leaders throughout the world to make possible the fulfilment of His plan. Remember that all the events of our lives fit the puzzle of that plan! Nothing that happens in the coming year will thwart God’s plan, and as a matter of fact, all that happens fits into the scheme of what the Lord is doing. With that in mind may we rest in the peace that God provides through His sovereign direction in our lives, and the decisions of men. We are each responsible before God for the decisions we make, even though God directs in the decisions that are made. … READ MORE