FRIDAY 30 December, 2016
God’s Guidance
Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child’s life are dead.” - Matthew 2:19-20
Notice, how God continued to give His guidance to Joseph and Mary; an angel, in a dream, told them it was now safe to return to Israel. Herod who had tried to kill their Son was dead. It is amazing to see the hand of the Lord direct their lives. We can reflect back and see how God’s guidance influenced them. The Lord chose Mary to conceive the Son of God, through the power of the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35).
In God’s perfect timing; Elizabeth had been barren but was now six months pregnant. Mary journeyed to see her aged cousin, and stayed there for three months (Luke 1:39-40; 56). Meanwhile the Lord had spoken to Joseph in a dream, not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife.
In God’s sovereignty a world-wide census was taken, Mary, even though great with Child, had to take a difficult journey with her husband to be registered in the City of David––Bethlehem. There was no room in the inn, Christ was born in a lowly stable and laid in a manger for his bed (Luke 2:1-7).
Even when Herod was determined to see the young Child killed. God’s guidance kept them safe. The Lord directed Joseph to escape to Egypt. Later, Joseph, guided by the Lord returned to Israel. Once again, Joseph heeded yet another dream given to him by the Lord and turned to the region of Galilee. They all settled in the city of Nazareth (Luke 2:22-23).
Each step of the way Scripture was being fulfilled, the events fit together like a perfect puzzle––amazing! Now, do you trust God to guide your life?
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
I will guide you with My eye
~Psalm 32:8~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!