Devotions 23-12-06

Luke 2:4-7
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register, along with Mary, who was engaged to him and was with child. And it came about that while they were there, the days were complete for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her first born son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

The parents, Joseph was given that responsibility, and Mary, did not get special treatment from God. They had to follow the rules of existing officials and God lead them in the midst of these rules even though it required a great sacrifice for them. God gave them safety and strength for this very difficult time but it required faith and courage on their part.

In the midst of living life things very seldom are easy and require a lot of work and sacrifice. God does not make things easier for me as a believer but He does give me the courage and strength to go through these difficult times. He is with me and gives me wisdom and meets my needs.

So I must be alert to how God is leading me and trust Him to lead me through obstacles and not necessarily remove the obstacles. He could do that as well but with Mary and Joseph He lead them through the difficulties. The issue is always faith. Heb 11:6 "And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him." I will never grow out of needing to trust God. That is an absolute need for me until I go to be with Him. Lord, help me to grasp this truth more firmly.