And while they were there (in Bethlehem), the time came for her to give birth.
–LUKE 2:6
I am the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren. They are all precious, and so much of what is good in them is attributable to the love and hard work of their mothers.
This care didn’t start when their children were born, but from the moment they discovered they were pregnant. From that day forward, the process of preparing for the birth began. From regular doctor visits to vitamin supplements to purchasing clothing and “nesting,” they prepared for the baby.
In contrast, think of Mary. She became pregnant out of wedlock, and her fiancée nearly cast her aside. She had no financial security or proper medical care. An order from far-off Rome compelled her to travel 70 miles to a strange town in the final days of her pregnancy. Once there, the only shelter the young family could find was in a stable. That’s where she gave birth.
It wasn’t the best timing, and certainly not the best of circumstances. But it happened that way so God’s master plan could be fulfilled. And because Mary was faithful, humble, and longsuffering, everything worked out perfectly.
From where you sit today, the future may look a little scary. Maybe your life isn’t going as planned. Are you worried about your health, your finances, or your family?
If so, I want to give you a word of encouragement today: God knows where you’re going and He knows how to get you there! He is just waiting on the right timing. God has an eternal plan for your life that is complete and perfect. He knows the future and has orchestrated every step along the way.
That’s why you don’t need to fear the future. Every circumstance is part of God’s great eternal plan for your life. Trust Him and be confident that He is preparing and positioning you for His purposes.
(To obtain a free copy of “The Cost of Christmas,” a 25-day advent devotional go to jackgraham.org, call 800-414-7693, or request it online at email@powerpoint.org.)
