TWISTS AND TURNS
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.
Luke 2:6-7 NLT
TODAY’S THOUGHT
Cindy and I are the proud grandparents of four of the greatest kids in the world. We are prejudiced but we really do think each of them are awesome in their own way. When their mothers discovered they were expecting they began to prepare for the baby. Regular doctors’ visits, supplements, and all the planning for a new baby to be born. Life was changed forever because of a baby coming into the family. Mary did not have all the advantages of the modern mom. Her life was disrupted first with an unplanned pregnancy, then a fiancé who wanted to end the relationship, and then being required to travel 70 miles to a strange village when nine months pregnant. They could not even rent a suitable lodging—they were in a stable. I’m sure this was not how Mary envisioned having her first baby. I’m sure that after the announcement from the angel she had dreams of a grand plan for the birth and announcement to the world. Being in a strange village, in a stable, and with limited support was probably not a part of the plan. But Mary proved faithful, obedient, and humble. She didn’t complain about the twist and turns of her life. She didn’t get mad at God for what appeared to be His bad timing. Life always has some twist and turns. Some things don’t seem to make sense to our human understanding. Those are the moments when our faith is developed the most. Can we trust God and walk in obedience when we don’t understand what is going on? Can we sing a song of praise when our heart is confused and hurting? When we choose to be faithful, obedient, and humble God will work through us and for us. He will accomplish His will in our lives.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Holy Spirit help me to remain faithful, obedient, and humble before You. Help me to lean into Your wisdom and strength. Help me to follow You even when I’m hurting and confused. I believe You are working in my life.
“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”