December 1
2 Kings 3
In this chapter, Jehoram, son of Ahab, was king of the ten northern tribes of Israel. He was the brother of Ahaziah who had taken the throne after the death of Ahab, but he had died from a fall. Because he had no son to take the throne, his brother, Jehoram, had been made king. During his reign in Israel, Jehoshaphat was the king of the two southern tribes of Judah. Jehoshaphat had earlier formed a league with Ahab which we examined in a previous devotion, concluding that this union was a mistake made by the good king Jehoshaphat. To add to the confusion, Jehoshaphat had a son named Jehoram, and he had become viceregent over Judah along with his father. (See 2 Kings 1:17-18) As he had done earlier, Jehoshaphat brought Judah into a war alongside Israel against a mutual enemy, Moab. That is the setting of Chapter 3.
This chapter records two of the many miracles associated with the prophet Elisha; the bringing of water to the thirsting armies of Israel, Judah and Edom, and the making that water have the appearance of blood to the Moabite army.
Lessons:
1. “Ye are the salt of the earth….” “Ye are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:13-14) The presence of Jehoshaphat, right or wrong, was of a saving influence for the other armies with which he had aligned himself.
2. Why the minstrel in Verse 15? Here is a suggestion? Even the man Elisha had to get himself away from all encumbrances and distractions in order to commune with and hear from God. I do not think there was anything supernatural in the minstrel’s music, but it did allow the man of God to clear his mind and focus all of his being on his communion with God. Don’t we need those times when all distractions are put aside in order that we might spend time with our Lord?
December 2
2 KIngs 4:1-7
God can take what you have and multiply it for His glory and to meet your need; a little oil, a little talent, a little strength. He can take a lad’s meager lunch or a simple shepherd’s staff and do great things. He took a young shepherd’s sling and a smooth stone to defeat a mighty giant, and He can take what you have and use it for His glory. Just trust all your needs to Him and watch Him “supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)
Lessons:
1. The old song says, “Little is much when God is in it.” God can take a little oil and make it go a long way.
2. God cares for His own. The prophet’s wife and his two sons were in need, and the Lord sent Elisha along to see that need was met. Be attentive to leadings of the Lord. He may just want you to be ready to supply a need in some soul.
December 3
2 Kings 4:8-37
“And she answered, It is well.”
The Shunammite woman in this story was a woman of faith; a faith that was active and even proactive. Years ago we had at Good News what we called a “Prophet’s Room.” It was fixed up like a motel room with a bedroom, a sitting room and a bathroom. Can you guess where we got that name, “Prophet’s Room.” This Shunammite woman had faith, and her faith was visible. She talked her husband into building on to their house a “Prophet’s Room” so that when Elisha was in the area he would have a place to rest and to study, a home away from home.
Here are two of the more familiar miracles in Scripture; the birth of the son to the Shunammite couple and his being raised from he dead by the prophet, Elisha. Her faith can really be seen in this event. When the boy died, she placed him in the “Prophet’s Room,” laid him on the bed of the man of God and went to find Elisha. When asked by Gehazi if everything was alright, her answer of faith was, “It is well.” All is well when we place our faith in the Lord.
Lessons:
1. Read James 2:14-20. Faith that does not produce outward results is at best a questionable faith.
2. Faith does not always produce miraculous results, but it will produce the reality in the heart that is filled with faith that “It is well.”
December 4
2 Kings 4:38-44
The sons of the prophets were the Bible college students of that day, and they trained under Elisha. In there training they had much to learn. On this particular day they learned several important lessons. First, they learned you need to be careful what you put in your pot for consumption. Everything is not edible. Second, they learned that our Lord can overcome our mistakes. Whatever plant was put into that pot they found the hard way to be poisonous. Thirdly, the sons of the prophets learned that God can make the bitter sweet and the poisonous to be harmless.
Lessons:
1. Like the wild vine, there are many things in this life that we need to avoid consuming in our hearts and minds. If we aren’t careful, we will find ourselves crying out, “There is death in the pot.”
2. Elisha had them cast meal into the noxious pot of stew and the stew was made safe to eat. The meal (bread flour) is a type of the Lord Jesus Christ and when He is “cast” into our poisoned lives through faith, there will no longer be “death in the pot.” He brings life where once was death.
December 5
2 Kings 5:1-14
Can you see the providence of God in this account? Was there cleansing properties in the Jordan River? Was it God’s desire that this “great man,” this “mighty man of valour” in Syria learn that there was a God in Israel that could do miraculous things when needed?
God’s providence can be seen all through this story; in the captured Jewish maid and in the leprosy contracted by Naaman. Through God’s providential leadings, He often conveys His will and reveals His desire to reach the unreached with His infinite grace.
Lessons:
1. The Syrians were constantly seen as enemies of Israel, but even among those enemies God longed to reveal Himself and be known by them. That is grace!
2. Even in the most adverse circumstances, the child of God should ever be ready to share a testimony and witness for the Savior. Like in the heart of this little maid, there should ever be a desire to see needy souls find their needs can be met in Christ.
December 6
2 Kings 5:15-27
When Naaman left Syria for Israel to find Elisha, he brought with him riches from his homeland to present to the man of God. When Elisha refused the “reward” for Naaman’s healing (which was really accomplished by the power of God, and not Elisha), Gehazi saw a missed opportunity, and did so seemingly resentfully. He devised a scheme whereby he might take advantage of the riches offered by Naaman, convincing himself that none would be the wiser, and that Naaman brought those goods from Syria for that very reason. The servant of the man of God was wrong in so many ways!
Lessons:
1. Temptation comes in many forms; that of the desire for “more” or “better” through less than appropriate means ranks up at the top of temptations faced by all.
2. The desire for more or better in itself is not evil, but when that desire mars sound ethical judgment leading to deception and dishonesty, that is sinful.
December 7
2 Kings 6:1-7
“…and the iron did swim.”
Heavy metal ships “swim” everyday, but not like this axe! This was one of Elisha’s amazing miracles. What was the purpose of this miracle? It helped those young preachers, those “sons of the prophets,” to learn that God could and would provide their needs. Often that provision would come through common means, like the Shunemite couple that provided for Elisha a “prophet’s room” for his rest during times of travel. There would be times, however, when common means were not available, but even then God would provide. The floating axe taught that. The floating axe taught that God is not limited or bound by that which falls within the realm of the norm or the natural. Iron doesn’t float, unless God makes it float.
Lessons:
1. The Lord can make your iron float if that is what is needed in your life.
2. The dwelling place for the sons of the prophet was needed, as was the wood and the tools for handling the wood. The axe was needed, so it was borrowed. Where we can labor, purchase and provide what is necessary, our Lord expects us to do just that. Where needs are beyond our capacity to provide, “…God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)
December 8
2 Kings 6:8-17
“…which of us is for the king of Israel?”
This story is a great illustration of a truth Paul expressed in Romans 8:31 where we read, “If God be for us, who can be against us?” God was certainly not for the king of Syria, but was for the king of Israel. He revealed the secret plans of Syria’s king to Elisha thus spoiling his surprise attacks against Israel. When the Syrian army did “compass the city,” the angelic hosts surrounded and protected the man of God.
Child of God, God is for you! Satan would do us harm, but he cannot do anything outside the will of God. Jesus allowed Satan to “sift” Peter, (Luke 22:32) but Peter was ever safe through Divine protection. So it is with all of God’s children, they are ever safe through the Lord’s tender care.
Lessons:
1. While our adversary would seek to do us harm, they that know Christ as Savior are ever in His care, constantly observed and protected through His great power.
2. There are spiritual enemies constantly warring against God’s people, but nothing will ever be allowed to befall them outside God’s protective and providential care.
December 9
2 Kings 6:18-23
Questions:
1. When confronted with a dangerous situation, what was Elisha’s response? See Verses 17, 18 and 20. Compare these with James’ comments about Elijah found in James 5:16-18.
2. Prayer places our challenges in the Lord’s hands. This is the message found in Proverbs 3:5 where we find these words, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. What could Elisha’s understanding have concluded when he saw a mighty army surrounding his city? How was his actions guided because he was trusting completely in the Lord rather than his own understanding?
3. What was Elisha’s response when the king of Israel asked if Syria’s army should be slain, seeing that the Lord had delivered them into their hands? How does Elisha’s answer compare to the teachings of the Lord Jesus found in Matthew 5:43-48?
December 10
2 Kings 6:24-33
Remember that the Kingdom of Israel, made up of the 10 northern tribes, was sold out to idolatry. Of all the kings of the northern tribes, none “did that which was right in the sight of the Lord.” They were all vile, idolatrous men. Although God had protected Israel from the attacks of their enemies, these attacks continued. This was because off their disobedience to God’s law and their refusal to seek His face in repentance. In our passage today we can see the predicament of the inhabitants of Samaria and the vile way they responded to the time of famine they were suffering because of the siege.
Lessons:
1. When a people refuse to align themselves with the principles found in God’s Word, there is no limit to their degradation.
2. Can you think of ways in which this truth can be seen in our country today, a country that was founded on the principles and precepts found in the Bible?
3. If God’s chosen people suffered because of their disobedience to God, is it feasible that our country could likewise suffer from the chastening hand of the Lord?
December 11
2 Kings 7
“…We do not well: this day is a day of good tidings, and we hold our peace…”
Herein is another great miracle in Scripture. God caused fear in the hearts of the Syrians, compelling them to flee quickly from their base, leaving all of their supplies behind. The four lepers discovered the deserted encampment with all of those supplies and goods that had been left. After the miraculous find, one of the lepers spake up saying, “We do not well….” He realized that there were friends and family in Samaria that were literally starving to death from the Syrian siege. It was their solemn duty to share the good news with the inhabitants of Samaria, which they did. The “lord on whose hand the king leaned” disbelieved the prophecy of Elisha, and thus condemned himself with his own unbelief.
Lessons:
The redeemed have been blessed with a glorious message of hope, that of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is this message that the world so desperately needs.
We do not well if we keep that glorious message of the Gospel of Christ to ourselves.
December 12
2 Kings 8:1-6
There are no such things as coincidence or good luck when it comes to God’s people. The woman of this passage, a woman of great faith, had been blessed in her relationship with God. She had made provisions in her home for the man of God, and had been blessed for her faithfulness. She had left Israel for the land of the Philistines at the direction of Elisha that she might avoid the seven years of famine. In that seven years, her property, her inheritance in the land, had been taken by others. She needed the intervention of the king in order that she might once again take possession of that inheritance. When she entered the presence of the king, he was at that very moment being told the story of the woman and of the raising of the dead of her son by the prophet Elisha. What a coincidence? Not, not at all! What great providence!
The Lord ever makes ways for His people by the direction of His Divine providence.
“For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” Hebrews 6:10
December 13
2 Kings 8:7-29
“…the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.” Daniel 4:32
These words were spoken by Nebuchadnezzar after his seven years of terrible mental instability. Once restored to his saneness, he honored God with this proclamation. Our passage today is an illustration of this truth.
God revealed to Elisha that Benhadad, king of Syria, would recover from a sickness he was suffering from, but that he would not continue to live. One of the men of Benhadad’s inner court, Hazael, would reign in his stead. This became a reality when Hazael slew Benhadad and took the crown of the kingdom for himself. The remainder of the chapter is taken up with accounts of the kings of Israel and of Judah.
Lessons:
These truths were spoken thousands of years ago, and these are truths that are still realities today.
The rulers on the world stage today are accomplishing the plans of our God. Their actions may seem detrimental to humanity, bringing the nations of the world ever closer to World War III, but they are still doing those things ordained by our God in eternity past.
December 14
2 Kings 9
Lessons:
Moses told the people, “…be sure your sin will find you out.” (Numbers 32:23) In this passage, Ahab and Jezebel’s sins came full circle with the hand of Divine judgment.
Jehu had an opportunity to turn things around spiritually in Israel, but he did not. God chose him to be king of the northern tribes and to be instrumental in being a tool in God’s hands in the dispersement of judgment.
In the darkest days of Israel’s history, some of the greatest prophets were sent by God to preach His Word and to fulfill his Divine purposes. Elisha sent this unnamed prophet from among the “sons of the prophets” with a most important message to Jehu. After delivering that message, those all-important events took place just as the young man had prophesied. Those dark days did not hinder the revelation God gave, and the dark days you and I are living in today are not devoid of God’s message to humanity.
December 15
2 Kings 10
“Thus Jehu destroyed Baal out of Israel. Howbeit….”
This is indeed a bloody chapter in Scripture. Many remaining of the house of Ahab were slain, as were the followers of Baal worship. Repeated twice in the chapter is the reference back to the prophecies of Elijah concerning Ahab and his descendants. Does this seem extreme? It is not. Baal worship was a cancer in Israel, a cancer that needed to be dealt with drastically. God chose to use Jehu to do just that.
In last week’s devotion we noted that Jehu had a golden opportunity to turn things around in the 10 northern tribes, but there was a “howbeit.” Jehu did not break away from the sins of Jeroboam. There remained in the land the golden calves that Jeroboam had erected to keep the people from returning to Jerusalem to the Temple for worship. Jehu was the best opportunity for the 10 northern tribes to have a king which “did that which was right in the sight of the Lord,” but he refused to lay aside Jeroboam’s sin.
Lessons:
Ahab’s sins effected all of Israel, and especially the people of his own family. So it is with sin.
God’s people should ever seek His face and strength that they might avoid having a “howbeit” in their lives as followers of Christ.
The next 10 days of devotional thoughts will be concerned with the birth of our Savior.
December 16
Luke 24:36-53 (Also read Luke 1:26-38)
Lu 24:44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
Nine days from today we will be celebrating the birth of our Savior. We do not know for certain the date of the birth of Christ, but traditionally have accepted December 25th. After the death and resurrection of Jesus, he appeared to His followers several times over the course of the next forty days, instructing and encouraging them prior to His ascension back into heaven. In one of those appearances, He spoke these important words given in the above verse. Notice what He said; "all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me." Basically, Jesus was saying that all of the Old Testament prophecies of His coming had to be fulfilled. For the next nine days, our devotions will be examining just some of those prophecies that were given concerning the coming Messiah, with a special emphasis on His birth.
Jesus said that the "law of Moses" contained prophecies of His First Advent. The first prophecy of the coming of the Messiah was given by God just after the fall. In fact, it was given during that same discourse when God cursed the human family because of their sin. For six thousand years, and actually throughout all eternity, the results of this curse will continue. Of course, we who have been saved will enter a glorious time when "there shall be no more curse," but the horrible lake of fire that burns forever will bear testimony of the words spoken by Almighty God in the Garden just after the fall. When God was speaking to the serpent and giving those dreadful words concerning the curse because of sin, He made a glorious promise. He said, "And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." (Gen 3:15) This was a prophecy of the coming of Christ, His suffering on Calvary and His defeat of Satan (the serpent) through His sufferings. But, it was also a prophecy of His birth. The Lord spoke of the "seed" of the woman; "her seed." A very lengthy discourse could be made here concerning the implications of this statement, but suffice to say, God was prophesying the virgin birth of the Messiah. (See also Isaiah 7:14) He would not be born through natural generation, but through the woman. The "seed" is always passed down through the father, but the birth of Messiah would be miraculous, different from any other birth. The Virgin Birth of the Lord Jesus is an inseparable part of the Christmas story, and an integral part of our faith as Christians. Remember, all things had to be fulfilled that were written in the "law of Moses" concerning the Messiah, including the prophecies of the miraculous, virgin birth.
Lord Jesus, I believe in Your miraculous birth. I praise You for Your great condescension, entering the world through the virgin's womb, that You might not be stained with the sin of Adam. Thank You for Your sinless perfection, and for being willing to be "sin for us, who knew no sin." Praise Your name for being the spotless "Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world. Amen!
December 17
Genesis 12:1-3 (Also read Matthew 1:1-18)
Jesus said that all things had to be fulfilled "which were written in the law of Moses" concerning His coming into the world. We refer to this event as His "first Advent." Yesterday we looked at the first promise of the coming Messiah, that He would be born of a virgin. In Genesis 12, verses one through three, God was speaking to the man, Abraham. In these verses, Abraham was being called out of Chaldea and the idolatry of that land, and was being given promises that would include the "seed" that had been spoken of earlier in the Garden of Eden. Remember that the "seed of the woman" was a prophecy of the miraculous, virgin birth of the Messiah. In this revelation given to Abraham, God was promising that the "seed" would be presented to the world through his descendants, who we know to have been the Jews.
God chose the Jews, the descendants of Abraham, to give the world His revelation we call the Bible. Every time you read your Bible, you are reading a book that was written by Jewish men who were inspired by the Holy Spirit. The only books in the Bible believed to have been written by a Gentile were the books of Luke and Acts. What a debt the world owes to the Jews for the Blessed Word of God. The greatest contribution to the world made by the descendants of Abraham, however, is the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Knowing the above facts, it becomes easier to understand the hatred and cruelty the Jews have experienced for thousands of years. The adversary, that "roaring lion" has sought to devour God's chosen people throughout their history. His hatred for the Word of God and for God the Son has fueled that animosity against the Jewish people. When we read through the Book of Revelation, we saw that this murderous hatred will continue right up until the Second Coming of Christ. As followers of Jesus Christ, there is no place whatsoever for any negative feelings toward the Jewish people.
This Christmas season, let's be mindful that our Lord in His humanity is a descendant of Abraham. When worshiping Christ as you consider the circumstances surrounding His birth, add prayers for the Jewish people; for their safety in a world that is filled with hate, and for their salvation through the virgin born descendant of Abraham, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Lord Jesus, we worship You for becoming flesh, dwelling among us and for dying for us on Calvary. We pray today for the Jewish people, Your kindred according to the flesh. We pray for the safety of Israel, and that their hearts would be open to the truth of Your Gospel. Bless missionaries who are ministering to the Jews with precious souls for their labor. In Jesus' Name, Amen!
December 18
Genesis 49:8-12
The above passage was written by Moses about 1400 years before the birth of Jesus Christ, but the prophecy spoken by Jacob as he neared the time of death was made six hundred years before that. Two thousand years before the birth of Christ, Jacob prophesied that the Messiah would be of the Tribe of Judah. Israel's first king, Saul, was of the Tribe of Benjamin, but because of His disobedience the kingdom was taken from him and his descendants. Instead, God sent Samuel to the house of Jesse to choose a king from among his sons. That son was David, the first of the Tribe of Judah to serve as king of Israel, and the beginning of that dynasty that would culminate someday in the crowning of Jesus Christ as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. When we read the account of the birth of Christ, we find that both Joseph and Mary were of the Tribe of Judah, just one more piece in that Divinely orchestrated plan of the presentation of the Messiah to the world.
As we were reading the Book of Revelation, we read of the opening of the seven-sealed book by the Lion of the Tribe of Judah. (Rev 5:5). He was called a "Nazarene" because of the fact that He was raised in Nazareth, but He was of the Tribe of Judah. The prophecy of the Messiah specified that He would be called out of Egypt (Matt 2:15), but would not be an Egyptian. No, He would be of Israel, of Judah's Tribe.
Why are these elements of the birth of Jesus Christ so important to us? They are important in the verification of the Person of the Lord Jesus. It is just one part of the overall undeniable body of evidence that proves beyond question that the Messiah that the world was waiting for and watching for is Jesus Christ, the virgin born Son of Mary. In times of great trial and testing, like John the Baptist we might be made to question the tenants of our faith, but when we are reminded of the minute details planned in eternity past by an all-knowing God to redeem us back to Himself, our faith is strengthened and made sure. One piece of that irrefutable evidence that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, is the fact that He was born of the Tribe of Judah. This Christmas season, let us worship the Lion of The Tribe of Judah, who condescended to this earth in order to redeem us back to Himself.
Lord Jesus, we praise You for all the minute details that were prophesied concerning Your birth. These only act to bolster our faith, and give us that confidence that we so need. Bless Your Name! Amen!
December 19
2 Samuel 7:1-16; Psalms 110:1-4; Isaiah 11:1-10; Matthew 1:1
One of the prophesies of the Coming Messiah was that He would be the Son of David. Paul wrote in Romans 1:3-4; "Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead." When Caesar Augustus sent out the decree concerning taxation, requiring everyone to return to the city of their fathers, Joseph and Mary had to leave Nazareth to return to Bethlehem, which was the city of the house and lineage of David. And, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered, and she brought forth her firstborn Son, Jesus. That precious little baby that was born in a stable was the royal descendant of King David, and would one day rule the world. Seven hundred years before His birth, Isaiah wrote, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this." (Isa 9:6-7)
You will notice as your are reading these prophecies of the Lord Jesus, both advents are being presented. There are the promises concerning His birth, but there are also connected with these the promises of His coming kingdom. Interspersed among the prophecies of the Coming Messiah, there were also prophecies of His death on Calvary. Psalms 22 and Isaiah 53 are just a couple of examples. The Jews were certainly familiar with the prophecies of His reigning, but most missed those concerning His birth, His sinless life and His death for the sins of the world.
As followers of the Lord Jesus, we need to take heart and know that, just as all of those promises concerning His First Advent were fulfilled completely, those prophecies concerning His Second Advent will be fulfilled also. The days surrounding His First Advent were exciting days, and so are these. Jesus is coming again, and it may be soon.
Father, I praise You for the prophecies that were fulfilled on the day of the birth of the Lord Jesus. Help me to be watching for His Second Coming. Amen!
December 20
Isaiah 7:14; 9:6-7; 53:1-2; Matthew 1:23; Luke 1:35; 1 Timothy 3:16
The virgin birth of the Savior is an important doctrine to followers of Jesus Christ. Some have claimed it to be an unimportant doctrine, while others who claim to be Christians have denied it altogether. Is this an essential Christian belief? Is it really necessary to believe that Jesus Christ was born of a virgin? The virgin birth of the Lord Jesus is an essential Christian doctrine that must be proclaimed and believed.
If Jesus was born by a natural birth, then Jesus was merely a man, one of the many multiplied billions of descendants of Adam. If that were the case, He would need a Savior just like you and I. Adam's blood would have been coursing through His veins, and Adam's sin would have been handed down to Him just as it was to all of Adam's race. The virgin birth of Jesus Christ really is a cardinal doctrine of the Christian faith for it supports the teaching of the deity of Jesus while assuring His sinless perfection, which was required if He were to be the accepted sacrifice for sins. Had Jesus been a son of Joseph, or some other man, He would not have been the sinless Lamb of God that could take away the sin of the world, for He would have been a sinner also.
This Christmas season, we are reminded of the great condescension of God the Son, when He robed Himself in flesh, the virgin born flesh that would one day be nailed to the Cross for our sins. Remember that in Romans 10:9, part of the requirement for being saved is a belief in, and confession of the Lordship of Jesus, or that Jesus Christ indeed is the LORD. They who refuse to do that do not believe in Jesus according to the Scriptural definition of belief. I believe, don't you?
Lord Jesus, I praise You for Your virgin birth, Your sinless life, and Your dying on Calvary's Cross for my sins. Amen! And Amen!
December 21
Galatians 4:4-6
As we are nearing the celebration of the birth of our Savior, we have been looking at Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah and how they relate to that birth. In Galatians, Paul speaks of mankind being "under the law." Of course, this refers to the "law of Moses" with all of its sacrifices, offerings and reminders of the sinfulness of mankind. In yesterday's devotion, we looked at prophesies that revealed the Jesus the Messiah would be born of a virgin; His birth would be supernatural, but He would take upon Himself human flesh. He was made, like unto His brethren (Heb 2:17), "under the law." He subjected Himself to all of the demands of the law of God. As you read through the account of the life of Christ that truth is clearly seen. He was taken to the Temple when He was eight days old for the required observances. We see Him at the age of 12 again returning to the Temple. Throughout His earthly ministry we see Him making those return trips to Jerusalem and the Temple on feast days. He was "made under the law."
When reading "the law of Moses," with all of its sacrifices and offerings, you will find the thought often, "without blemish." The sacrifices offered in the Tabernacle, and later in the Temple, had to be flawless, perfect specimens. Had they been torn by a beast, or deformed in any way the priest would not have accepted them as sacrifices. They were figures of that which was to come, when the Lord Jesus would offer Himself for our sins on Calvary. They had to be "without blemish," an so did He. And He was! That is part of the requirement of the virgin birth of Christ. He was "made of woman," and "made under the law." He met all of the law's requirements, all of its demands. When He offered Himself on Calvary, He was truly "without blemish." As the "Lamb of God," He was accepted by God as the sinner's substitute.
This Christmas season, think on this: That Babe lying in the manger was the sinless Lamb of God who came to this earth, lived a perfect life and died on the Cross in our stead so that we sinners could be cleansed, saved and given the hope of eternal life. Praise God!
Lord Jesus, thank You for becoming flesh, meeting all of the requirements of the Holy Law of God, and for being our Lamb. Thank You for the blessed hope of eternal life that we have ONLY through You! In Your Name, Amen!
December 22
Job 38:1-7; Psalms 104:1-5; Hebrews 1:6; Revelation 5:11; Luke 2:13-14
Throughout Scripture, the angels of heaven have been heard singing and shouting praises to their Creator. In Job 38, the Lord is speaking to Job of the day in eons past when the angels, the "morning stars," shouted praises to the One that inhabits eternity, the Almighty Creator. Paul made a statement in Hebrews 1:6 that goes as follows, "And again, when He bringeth in the firstbegotten in the world, He saith, And let all the angels of God worship Him." Some think this to be a quote from Psalms 97, but it could simply be a Spirit-inspired revelation to Paul of what God the Father said at the time of the Brith of God the Son. That is certainly what happened on the night of His birth.
Take yourself back to that night when the heavens were filled with that wonderful choir of angelic beings as they blended their voices together in praises to the new born King. This was actually something that the angels had been doing since the day of the creation. Remember the angelic beings that Isaiah saw in Chapter 6. They rest not day or night, but were constantly crying out, "Holy, Holy, Holy...." John saw and heard the same angelic beings seven hundred years later, as recorded in Revelation 4. Even Lucifer, before the fall, was described as having musical instrument with which he praised the Creator. That night when the angels were singing, "Glory to God in the highest..." they were continuing what had begun for them in eons past.
This Christmas, let's blend our voices with the angelic host in praising the Babe of Bethlehem, the Christ of Calvary. Let's praise Him for coming to this earth, that some day we who have been saved might be in heaven with Him. "Glory to God in the highest...."
Lord, we praise You for coming to us and for us. Glory to Your Holy Name! Amen!
December 23
Micah 5:2; Luke 2:1-5; Matthew 2:1-6
The birth of the Lord Jesus was ordained and planned in eternity past; every detail, every step. One of those plans made had to do with the place of His birth. Remember, as we noted earlier, the Messiah was to be a son of David, and accordingly was to born in the city of David, which was Bethlehem. Bethlehem was a small town located some 5 miles south of Jerusalem. It was the place where Rachel died (Genesis 48:7), and the birthplace of King David and the place where he was anointed to be king in Israel by Samuel the prophet. (1 Sam 6:4-13). There is a church there today that was built by Constantine in the fourth century that is supposedly over the place of the stable where Christ was born. Millions have visited this church over the centuries, worshiping the One Who entered time near two thousand years ago. He entered time so that we might enter eternity with Him.
Micah's prophecy reminds us of the lowly circumstances surrounding He Who is to be crowned King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He entered this world in such an humble and lowly way. Born into a poor family in a small city in the small country of Israel which was under Roman rule, the Lord Jesus sought not the fame and honor of being born into a royal family in royal circumstances. He came lowly, humble as a servant rather than a king. The entire life of the Lord Jesus was one of humility and servitude. His humble coming and lowly life provides for us an example that we should seek to follow. The servant is not greater than his Lord, so we should also walk humbly as servants of our God. The Child of Bethlehem Who was born in a lowly stable, the One full of grace and truth, made Himself of no reputation (Philippians 2:1-11) in order to bring us to God. What a blessed example is He!
Lord Jesus, we praise You for Your humble birth and life. We long for that day when You will be given the glory and honor to which You are due as our Savior, Lord and King. In You Holy Name we pray, Amen!
December 24
Luke 1:5-21; Malachi 3:1
By the time Jesus was born, Elizabeth was carrying around a baby boy about six months of age. He would grow up at the same time of Jesus, and would begin his ministry just before the Lord began His. His job was so very important. He was to prepare Israel for her coming King. He was different to say the least, nothing like the young men of his day. From his clothing to his diet, from his mannerisms to his message, John the Baptist was an unusual man, the last of the Old Testament prophets. Once the Messiah came on the scene, John's ministry would begin, as he put it, to "decrease." In fact, John's life was ended by wicked King Herod some time after he introduced the Lord Jesus to the world. When Jesus talked of John, He did so with words of praise and commendation. John was a great man with a great mission. While all of the events of the birth of Christ were progressing, Elizabeth was at home tending to a baby boy that would have the awesome task one day of telling people about the coming Messiah.
We are in a similar situation today. The church knows something that the world does not know. We know Jesus came, we know He died and rose again, and that He is coming again. Our message is similar to John's; "Jesus is coming, preparations must be made!" John was faithful to his calling. Many souls were touched by his message of repentance and preparation. Believer, you and I must be busy telling others, showing them the love of Christ and letting them know that Jesus came to provide salvation and is coming again to take us unto Himself.
The world in John's day was changing. Things were happening fast. Prophecies that had been made literally thousands of years earlier were bing fulfilled in rapid succession. Our world is changing, and the changes are marching on quickly. The stage for the final dramas of prophetic revelation has never been so set as it is today. The Lord Jesus is coming. Like John, we must be faithful to the calling we have received from our Lord. Let's be looking, waiting, serving, and witnessing until He comes.
Lord Jesus, help me today to be a faithful witness as John the Baptist was before Your First Advent. Give me the opportunity to tell some lost soul of the wonderful salvation You have provided. In Jesus' Name, Amen!
December 25
Matthew 2:1-18; Jeremiah 31:15
Surely the birth of Christ would be a joyous occasion for all the world, everyone would be thrilled at His coming. There would be laughter, singing and rejoicing by all who learned of the coming Messiah. But, that is not the way it happened. Yes, some were thrilled, like the shepherds and the wise men who traveled from afar. Others were not be so thrilled. In prophecy, Jeremiah heard weeping in Rama. The daughters of Rachael would be mourning the loss of their baby boys when the Baby Boy, Messiah, was born.
When Herod learned that the magi had returned to their home without bringing him additional word concerning the birth of the Messiah, he was angered. His anger was murderous, resulting in the death of all young males two years and under in the region of Judah where the Lord Jesus was born. We can hardly imagine such hatred, such fear, such wickedness as to result in the death of the innocents. Later, the Lord Jesus would make an amazing statement. He said, "Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division...." This "division" was not His desire, but it was a harsh reality. People around the world would be greatly divided concerning the Person of the Lord Jesus. It started at His birth and continues to this very day. Either people believe in and love the Lord, or they are opposed to Him and all that He stands for. For some, that opposition becomes violent, filled with hatred.
How sad! How sad it was for the young women in Rama, and how sad it is today that the majority of the world is so opposed to the message of Christ. Today is Christmas Day. Let's pray for the world around us, that they might see Jesus Christ as He is; the Lord, the Savior and the Coming King. Don't be surprised if those you tell of Him are opposed to your message and your Savior. Don't be shocked if their opposition becomes strong, even enraged. It happened during the time of His birth, and it will surely happen again.
But today is not a sad day! This is the day that God Almighty became flesh and dwelt among us. This is the day that our Salvation came down to earth. This is the day that hope filled the air and songs of praise filled the heavens. May it do so this very day, the day of the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!
Blessed Savior, thank You for Your birth. We worship the Babe in the manger, the Savior on the Cross, the Soon Coming King! Amen!
December 26
2 Kings 11
Chapter 11 takes up events of the two southern tribes of the Kingdom of Judah after the death of their king, Ahaziah, in Chapter 9, Verses 27-28. Ahaziah’s mother, Athaliah, declared herself queen of Judah and ordered the death of “all the seed royal.” The Kingdom of Judah was then ruled by Queen Athaliah for six years.
All of the “seed royal” were slain according to Athaliah’s orders except for one infant, Joash, son of Ahaziah. He was rescued by Ahaziah’s sister and kept guarded in the “house of the Lord” for six years. At the age of seven, Joash was taken out of hiding and declared to be Judah’s king. Once the rightful heir to the throne was crowned, Athaliah was slain, thus ending the era of the kingdom of Judah being ruled by a queen.
Lessons:
It has been said that power tends to corrupt, and that absolute power corrupts absolutely. This chapter verifies that saying.
There will always be those whose quest for power will drive them to unbelievable extremes. Athaliah serves as an example of that reality.
December 27
2 Kings 12
Questions:
Who was Jehoash? See 2 Kings 11:2, 21. “Joash” means “given by the Lord.” “Jehoash” was simply a variant spelling of “Joash.”
How important was the influence of Jehoiada the priest on Jehoash the king? See Verse 2.
For a more detailed understanding of the reign of Jehoash, please read the following: 2 Chronicles 24.
December 28
2 Kings 13:1-13
Questions:
How did Hazael come to the throne of the 10 northern tribes of the Kingdom of Israel? See 2 Kings 8:8-15. According to Easten’s Bible Dictionary, Hazael reigned over Syria for 46 years. After his death, his son Benhadad (whom he had named after a previous king in Syria) reigned in his stead.
Although not departing from the sins of Jeroboam, Jehoahaz “besought the Lord” due to the oppression being suffered in Israel at the hand of the king of Syria. Divine deliverance was given. (See Verse 5) Can you see a partial fulfilling of the promise made by God to Solomon in 2 Chronicles 7:14?
Because of the unions and intermarriages made between the kings of Judah and those of Israel, the names of some of the children of those marriages are the same as others in different families. This can be seen in this chapter. See Verses 9-10. The names of children from these unions were not the only confusion brought upon Judah and Israel. Can you think of other examples of confusion from these unions? See Amos 3:3
December 29
2 Kings 13:14-25
There is something that I have seen lately among what could be considered people of importance. They claim to be believers in God and followers of Jesus Christ, but their lives send forth a different message. They cling to philosophies and fads of the world, and from all outward appearances are little different from the vilest of the world. Their language is filled with profanity, even in the taking of God’s name in vain. I’m reminded of this when I read these verses in 2 Kings 13.
Joash, king of Israel, came to the dying man of God, weeping over him with great sorrow. This king led Israel to some victories over Syria due to God’s divine protection and favor, but Joash never broke from the sins of Jeroboam in the worship of the golden calves.
The final miracle associated with Elisha came after his death and burial. When the lifeless of form of the man being buried touched the dried bones of Elisha he revived and stood upon his feet. When Elijah was about to be taken in the chariot of fire, Elisha requested a double portion of his spirit. An interesting study is comparing the miracles associated with Elijah and those associated with Elisha.
December 30
2 Kings 14
Questions:
It is said that Amaziah “did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, yet not like David his father.” Can you think of a difference in the way that Amaziah faced his foes and the way that David faced his? Compare 2 Kings 14:8-12 with 1 Samuel 30:7-8.
As a result of the loss to Jehoash, Amaziah jeopardized the safety of Jerusalem and the sacredness of the Temple. His great defeat may well have been the reason for his death at the hands of the conspirators. Can you see the difference again between Amaziah and his ancestor, David? While Amaziah was considered a good king, he was not as David, “a man after God’s own heart.” For this reason, the record of his life is less than what would be considered Scripturally desirable.
December 31
2 Kings 15:1-7 with 2 Chronicles 26
Azariah (Jehovah has helped) in 2 Kings 15 is the same as Uzziah (my strength is Jehovah) in 2 Chronicles 26. He was a good king, doing that which was right in the sight of the Lord, and reigned in Judah for 52 years. When Uzziah was at a position of strength and honor, he violated the priests office, entering the Temple and burning incense on the altar before the veil. When rebuked for his error, he was infuriated, but during the exchange with the priests God smote Uzziah with leprosy. From that time forward, his son was coregent with him over the Kingdom of Judah. Uzziah is mentioned in Isaiah 6:1.
Lessons:
The demands and restrictions found in God’s Word are to be honored in our lives as we “rightly divide the word of truth.” There are truths in the Old Testament that are not applicable to us today, but those that are applicable must be adhered to consistently. Azariah failed in this when he endeavored to assume the responsibilities of the priests in the Temple. He may have had the best intentions, perhaps a desire to seek God’s face, but his actions were prohibited in the law of God.
Azariah’s contributions to Judah were significant, but his error left a stain on his record. Unfortunately, lives are often remembered more for what was wrong about them than what was right about them. Thank God for His grace through our Lord Jesus, Who has taken all our sins to Himself and has given us His imputed righteousness!
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