Daily devotional · December 16
God With Us in Real Life
“Again the LORD spoke to Ahaz, saying, “Ask for a sign from the LORD your God, whether from the depths of Sheol or the heights of heaven.” But Ahaz replied, “I will not ask; I will not test the LORD.” Then Isaiah said, “Hear now, O house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of men? Will you try the patience of my God as well? Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin will be with child and give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel.”
King Ahaz is frightened by enemy armies, and God invites him to ask for any sign. Ahaz refuses with pious-sounding words, though his real reason is that he has already decided to trust politics over the Lord. God gives a sign anyway: a young woman will bear a son and call him Immanuel, God with us. Christians have long seen its fullest meaning in Jesus. The name is more than a slogan; it is a promise that God does not stay at a distance from human fear. He comes into the very situations that make us anxious. If you feel outnumbered this month by bills, family tension or health worries, Immanuel means you do not face them alone. Today, write your greatest worry on a card and beneath it write the word Immanuel. Pray over it, then carry the card and read it whenever anxiety rises. If it becomes overwhelming, seek a trusted counselor or doctor.
Prayer
Immanuel, You are with me. In my fears, remind me I am not alone. Amen.