Gems worth reading
December 31
"Unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given." (Isaiah 9:6)
Here clearly the prophet distinguishes the wonder of our Lord's incarnation. As a Child He was born, wrapped in swaddling clothes, laid in a manger, and held in His mother's arms. As a Son, He was given as heaven's gift by God who so loved the world, the eternal Son of God by whom the worlds were framed and by whom our salvation was secured. Why a child and a Son? So that we, through His death, burial and resurrection, could be born again as God's dear children and one day he presented as the sons of God (Romans 8:19) (Rex Trogen)
N.J. Hiebert # 3570
"And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was NO ROOM for them in the inn." (Luke 2:7)
All the circumstances were pre-arranged yet there was no comfort for the Lord Jesus. The journey, trauma and birth of the Lord Jesus were all clothed in hardship. The event of all time was heard by heaven and earth, in heaven the angels announced it, on earth a few shepherds received it. A premonition of how God's choice through Christ would work being spiritually promoted but only a few receiving it. Sad reflection on the heart of man.
Such a wonderful secret to keep. God is so wonderful in allowing us brief glimpses of His grace and mercy which He allows us to treasure. They provide strength for the future and memories to cherish in troubling times. He often uses simple people to do great things - shepherds. How amazed the angels must have been to look down upon a helpless babe. (B.R. - Submitted by a reader of the "Gems.")
N.J. Hiebert # 3571
"Christ us all in all." (Colossians 3:11)
When you are down to nothing.... God is up to something!
“…O LORD…I flee unto thee to hide me.” Psalm 143:9
Faith sees the invisible, believes the incredible and receives the impossible!
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1
Faith looks away from circumstances to the God of circumstances.
“…in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee.” Psalm 143:9
And there you will find perfect peace
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” Isaiah 26:3
Then, stand and watch what the Lord is going to do!
“…Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you…” Exodus 14:13
(Submitted by a reader of the "Gems.")
N.J. Hiebert # 3572
