The Wonder Of ChristmasSample

An Unexpected Guide

Written By: Pastor Jeff Seward

“When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy.”—Matthew 2:10 (NKJV)

Has God ever surprised you by doing something unexpected—just to show you how much He loves you?

God did something totally unforeseen for the Wise Men in the Christmas story. These men were on a search, driven to know the truth. When they began their journey, they were not necessarily believers in the Messiah. However, they had obtained copies of Old Testament scriptures, studied science and astrology, and learned of a coming promised Savior. Deep in their souls was a longing for the truth and a need for a Savior. The world was in trouble, sin was infecting their hearts, and they hoped for a life better than what they were currently living. God used the prophets and a supernatural phenomenon to pursue these men and then to lead them to the Savior born in Bethlehem.

The Lord can use whatever He chooses to get your attention. He loves you and will pursue you so you will encounter Him. He created you for a personal relationship. Ephesians 1:4 (NKJV) says, “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world . . .”  He has had you in mind before time began.

For the men from the East, it was a star. Spiritually speaking, the glorious star is Jesus. He is the star that guides us to a personal encounter with Him. The Lord knows what you need in this life. Today, He guides you by His inspired Word, the Holy Spirit, the beauty of prayer, and fellowship with other Christians. He sent His Son to be the Savior and the Shepherd of your soul. He is the greatest gift at Christmas.

How can you follow the example of the Wise Men?

1. In Jeremiah 29:13 (NKJV), the Lord says, “You will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”

2. In Matthew 6:33 (NKJV), Jesus says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

3. Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV) says, "For he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him."

Today, may you experience the unexpected ways God wants to work in your life.  In 1 Corinthians 2:9 (NKJV) we read, “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” May you rejoice exceedingly in Who He is and what He has done for you!

DIG: What or whom has God used as an unexpected guide or encounter in your life?

DISCOVER: Seek Him daily through the Bible and prayer.

DISPLAY: How are you living your life for Him like a wise man or woman?