What Is This? Embracing the Gifts You Didn't Ask ForSample

While the favor of God is a gift so great it can’t be measured, it doesn’t equal an easy life. 

Sometimes we believe that if we obey God, our life should be marked by convenience and comfort — but the Christmas story leads us to believe otherwise. 

Mary and Joseph were forced to take a road trip at the very time Mary was about to give birth, and when they arrived at their destination, they couldn’t even find a room to stay in. 

This is the part in the story when most of us would start wondering if we heard God correctly. If God, who controls all things, was bringing His Son into the world, wouldn’t He allow Mary to give birth in the comfort of her own home? Make it easy on her, right? Or at the very least, roll out the red carpet for His Son and provide Mary with the fanciest room upon her arrival in Bethlehem? 

But God rarely works in ways we expect, and we miss out on His best when we limit Him with our shallow expectations. 

Mary and Joseph ended up in a place that was meant for animals — not royalty — and there in that dark and dirty place, God allowed them to play a pivotal part in the miracle that would set our salvation in motion. 

If this year has felt uncomfortable for you, don’t assume it’s because God isn’t watching or doesn’t care. Hardships and heartache aren’t signs that you aren’t favored. 

Mary obeyed God with a grateful spirit, but God didn’t soften the road before her. Instead, He strengthened her to walk the difficult journey ahead. 

Mary probably wished she was in the comfort of her own home on the night she gave birth to Jesus. It’s normal to crave comfort. However, the beauty of that night was that God had finally made His home with us. 

The favor of God on your life may include some chapters that feel incredibly frustrating, but don’t get distracted by the mess and miss your miracle. 

Ask God to show you today where He’s working a miracle in the midst of what feels like a mess.