READ | Matthew 1:18-2
Names have great significance in the Bible. Jesus was called Messiah in Hebrew, which is translated as Christ in Greek. The terms both pointed to Him as an anointed One who would become King. Immanuel was another important name He was given. It means “God with us” (Matt. 1:23).
To understand the difference it makes to have God with us, consider how this blessing affected three biblical leaders. First of all, the Lord’s presence was the reason Moses repeatedly approached Pharaoh to demand the release of the Israelite slaves—God’s promise enabled him to overcome his fear (Ex. 3:12).
Second, after Moses’ death, Joshua was appointed to take Israel into the Promised Land. Imagine what it meant to this new leader to realize that the Father was always near. As commander, Joshua would face many challenges, including travel, combat, and rebellion. He could be a courageous leader because he knew that the Lord would never leave him.
Third, as a young shepherd boy and later as king, David knew the Lord’s presence well (1 Sam17:37; 2 Sam. 7:18). In Psalm 23, he wrote that in his darkest times, he would not fear evil because God was with him.
Our Father has pledged to be with all those whom He has redeemed (Isa. 43:1-2). If you have received Jesus as your personal Savior, then His Holy Spirit dwells within you. No matter what happens in your life, God remains with you to strengthen, guide, and comfort.
As we said yesterday, what an indescribable gift.
Keep Phil Patton in your prayers. He is not responding well to the medication right now at Methodist.
Michael