Making It Real

Have you ever experienced a time when you really recognized God’s presence in your life?

What happened? Looking back, why was His presence especially obvious during this time?

Taking You Back

Read Matthew 2:13-23. So what do you think? Is God a faithful Provider or what? He took such good care of Mary and Joseph and baby Jesus. He let them know exactly when they needed to leave Egypt, and they obeyed His voice. He also led them back into Israel, taking them by a safe path so they could return home. He was watching over them all the way.

One name for Jesus is Emmanuel, meaning “God with us.” And God really was with Mary and Joseph. He was watching over them, keeping them safe and guiding their path so they could return home without being harmed. He never promised that their journey would be easy, but He kept them in His perfect care, guiding them each step of the way.

God was with Mary and Joseph then, and He’s with you right now. He’s right by your side, and He’ll never leave you or forsake you. There might be times in your life when things seem really hard, but He will always be with you, guiding your steps and keeping you in His hands. He’s unchanging. Jesus is still Emmanuel in your life today — He’s always with you.

Your Thoughts

Take a few minutes to write in your journal about what you’ve learned.

• Where did you see God’s faithful presence in Mary and Joseph’s story?

• How does it make you feel knowing that Jesus is Emmanuel — with you always, every minute, every second of your day?

• How does this affect your outlook on life and your view of Him?

From You to God

God, You are so good! Thank you for the way I can see Your presence in Joseph and Mary’s story, and thank you that You are still that same God today. I trust You with my life. Please remind me of Your presence when things get rough. I’m so thankful for a relationship with You! Please draw my heart close to Yours and keep my eyes on You as I celebrate the birth of Jesus. I love You! Amen.

Facebook Fun

Where have you seen Jesus this Christmas season? Post it as your FB status and tag SUSIE Magazine!

Bonus

Draw a map of major milestones in your faith journey and write how God has used them to help draw you closer to Himself. Highlight places where His faithfulness has been especially evident, and rejoice in His constant presence in your life.

Have a blessed Christmas Eve, SUSIE Sisters! We love you!