God Works In Mysterious Ways – January 9, 2021

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”
Micah 5:2

God Works In Mysterious Ways

“God works in mysterious ways.” That’s quite a statement, and for many of us, at least at one time or another, we have wondered “why” God did what he did or allowed something to happen. From a human perspective, it appears to be a mystery.

For centuries, the Old Testament believers were waiting for God to send the Messiah, the one who would restore the relationship between sinful people and a holy God. When he was coming was a mystery. The picture was getting darker and darker. The nation of Israel was dwindling. They were taken into captivity in Babylon. Only a remnant returned to Jerusalem. Then the Greeks conquered, and later the Romans ruled. It wasn’t looking good, and then…

In the little town of Bethlehem, small among the clans of Judah, a virgin gave birth to a baby boy. This child, who was visited by shepherds and Magi, would one day grow up to be ruler over all nations of the earth and he would bring peace.

You might think this is a mystery. Jesus didn’t extend the physical boundaries of Israel. There certainly isn’t peace in the Middle-East, let alone through the world. What kind of mystery was Micah prophesying?

Here’s the solution: Jesus’ kingdom is his rule in people’s hearts by faith—people all over the earth. While there is still physical strife and struggle, believers in Jesus have peace. They know and trust that Jesus is shepherding and watching over their lives at all times. He, as a ruling king, is guiding, and directing all things for their good. Ah, the mystery is revealed!

Is Jesus ruling in your heart, or has God just been a mystery for years? Could Jesus bring you peace in this New Year? Absolutely! Trust the words written on the pages of the Bible, for God sent his Son—born in little Bethlehem to be your very own Savior and Shepherd and King!

Prayer:
Lord, help me to see that you are my Savior, my Shepherd, and my King each day. Amen.