Looking for a Sign from God This Christmas

“Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel”
(Isaiah 7:14).

There have been times in my life when I have wanted specific signs from God.  Sometimes I have wanted signs concerning my health, such as what doctors to see, what treatments to take, or what medicines or supplements to try.  Other times I have wanted signs concerning financial issues, relationships, or commitments.  Life would be so much easier if God would just send a note, phone call, or text. 

The Biblical Christmas story is full of signs. The Jews were given Isaiah’s prophecy of the virgin birth of Immanuel to come.  Mary was given a message from Gabriel telling her the child within her was God’s Son. Joseph was given an angelic dream allaying his fears about taking Mary as his wife.  The shepherds were given a sky full of heavenly angels proclaiming Jesus’ birth and directing them to go and worship Him.  The wise men were given a star in the east, guiding them to the place where Jesus was.

Those signs can speak to us today.  Like Mary, we can be assured that God knows what He’s doing in our lives, even when circumstances seem otherwise. Like Joseph, we can give our fears to the Lord, remembering He is in control and will be with us through anything we may face. Like the shepherds, we can choose to rejoice and worship the King under any conditions.  Like the magi, we can follow the guidance of God’s Word for living in a world that in many ways is ungodly and full of suffering.

We may be looking for a sign related to something very specific this Christmas season, or we may just want a sign that God is still with us in our joys and sorrows.  Whatever we’re looking for, let’s not ignore the sign sent long ago – Immanuel, God with us, Jesus in us.  He knows our needs.  In His perfect timing and by His chosen methods, He will direct our paths.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, sometimes I am overwhelmed with decisions I face in life.  I need Your divine guidance, and Your Word promises You will give it.  Thank you for the precious gift of Jesus, because with His birth and subsequent death and resurrection, I have the Your Spirit living in me.  Show me the way I should go as I continue to trust, worship and seek You.  Amen.