My Advent Journeyಮಾದರಿ

It’s all good

'And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.' (Romans 8:28, NIV)

In many ways, the Christmas story has been so sterilised that you may miss the struggle. There is so much resistance in the account that, if you are not observant, you will overlook it. The struggle was real, as seen in the lack of trust in the lives of Zechariah (Luke 1:18) or in Mary’s initial response to the angel Gabriel (Luke 1:34). There is also the struggle for control, such as Joseph’s original decision to divorce Mary upon hearing the news of her pregnancy (Matthew 1:19) or the scheming of King Herod upon hearing of a newborn king (Matthew 2:13).

A second look at the Christmas story further proves that, even in the midst of the struggle, God was at work. Doubt and disbelief led to a yielding of trust. The struggle for control leads to submission, or in Herod’s case, God’s ways will not be thwarted.

• What about your story? Think of a time when God’s hand was on your life, even through the struggle. Maybe you couldn’t see it then, but as you reflect, fresh revelation comes. Journal your thoughts.

Prayer: Lord, today, help me trust you, especially through whatever struggle comes my way. Amen.