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Editor’s note: Friends, we hope you join us for the Waiting Here for You Online Bible Study starting December 4th. Let’s spend this wonderful and yet challenging season waiting on Jesus with hope. Sign up today!
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But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons (and daughters)*. — Galatians 4:4-5 ESV *(added by author)
Reflection
While God rarely comes at our appointed time, He always comes at the right time. A Savior had been promised to God’s people for centuries. And for centuries they longed and prayed for rescue to no avail. Yet on the right day, in the right place, at the right time, Jesus was born.
- Christmas reminds us that God comes through on His promise.
We are all waiting on something or someone, often wondering if God has forgotten us. Is that where you are today? In your waiting, let the birth of Christ encourage you. Just because God hasn’t come through (as far as you can see), it doesn’t mean He has abandoned you. This very minute He’s working for His glory and for your good. Though circumstances say otherwise, God is moving right now to fulfill His long-appointed plans for you. Don’t give up. Take hope in the manger and know that you are prized by Jesus. He stepped down from Heaven for you. And just as He loved you that day, He loves you right now. And Jesus is with you, even in the storm.
Meditation
Hark the Glad Sound
Hark the glad sound! The Savior comes, The Savior promised long;
Let ev’ry heart prepare a throne
And ev’ry voice a song.
He comes the pris’ners to release,
In Satan’s bondage held.
The gates of brass before Him burst, The iron fetters yield.
He comes the broken heart to bind, The bleeding soul to cure,
And with the treasures of His grace To enrich the humble poor.
Our glad hosannas, Prince of Peace, Thy welcome shall proclaim,
And Heav’n’s eternal arches ring With Thy beloved name.
Philip Doddridge, 1702–1751
Prayer
Father, meet me in the waiting, the place where I long for what is not fully in view. Still my heart and give me the ability to know that You are near. I believe Your plans are good. I see it in the birth of Your only Son. But sometimes I struggle to see beyond the haze that surrounds me. Renew my confidence as I lift my eyes to You. Be glorified in my life during this season of expectation. Amen.
Excerpted with permission from the Waiting Here for You Devotional by Louie Giglio, copyright Louie Giglio.
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Your Turn
Are you waiting and waiting and waiting? I am, too. In Jesus, we can trust that it’s not in vain. God has not forgotten you or your prayers. Jesus is with you in the waiting and He is perfect in His timing. We invite you to join us for the Waiting Here for You Online Bible Study starting December 4th! It’s going to be a wonderful season of waiting in great hope! ~ Laurie McClure, Faith.Full
