Journey To A MangerSample

The Surprise Package

Many surprises are fun - surprise parties, unexpected gifts or even getting good news. Yet, some surprises are not always something we want - unexpected bad news, a family illness or extra work. Although unpleasant at first, God often uses these surprises to reveal a greater plan and purpose. The virgin Mary received an unexpected surprise when the angel told her that she was pregnant with the Christ - who would be called Jesus, Son of the Most High. Bobby Gruenewald, the creator of the YouVersion Bible App, also got the idea for the application in an unexpected way.

Sometimes your plan might be different from God’s plan. You never know the surprising ways God will work when you trust Him with the vision He has given to you. Had Bobby not responded to God's call, millions of people might not have had access to the life-giving word of God. Likewise, if Mary had not responded in faith, our lives would look very different today.

Apply

• Think about an unpleasant surprise that you experienced- how do you think God was moving in that situation?
• Do you think God may be prompting you to trust Him with some unexpected news? How will you respond to His call?

For more information about Making Your Life Count, visit MakingYourLifeCount.org/youversion