Teenside Daily Devotional

3/26/20
Read Matthew 2:1-12.

I’ve always found it quite interesting that we will never know exactly who the wise men are or where they come from. I assume that’s intentional so we can stay focused on the more important aspects of this story. So, what can we learn from these men that are never named? First, the wise men must have been attuned and aligned with the Word of God. It would have been nearly impossible for something outside of Hebrew scripture to point them directly to the star that would lead them to the king of the Jews. They may have turned to astrology, dream interpretations, or even magic at some point to assist them, but they could not have gotten here without writings from the prophets of Israel. Second, they “rejoiced exceedingly with great joy” when they saw the star that would lead them to the Messiah. They weren’t getting excited about the star itself, they were just so ready to meet Jesus! Finally, they humbled themselves before him. They “fell down and worshiped him,” bringing him extremely valuable gifts. These men could have simply boasted in themselves, never starting this journey to the Christ. Yet, they chose to make it, and they chose to bow down. We should all do the same! It is never easy, especially not in our time, but we need to align ourselves with God’s Word, be overjoyed about drawing near to our Savior, and when we get to him, bow humbly before him. He has done more for us than we will ever fully know!

Questions:
*Take a moment to journal these questions. Write down your thoughts, questions, and concerns. Then date your entry. One of the coolest things is being able to look back and see how God came through for you.*
 

1. Read Jeremiah 29:13. Now, read it in context: Jeremiah 29:10-14. In these verses, God reassures his people of the promise he made to them. God has also made this promise to you. He will never leave or forsake you, no matter the Babylon you may find yourself in. What does it mean for you to seek God with all your heart? (Dig deep on this one. It’s easy to say that you need to “read the bible” and “pray”– and while those things are necessary, there’s more that is specific to you.)

2. Upon seeing the baby, the wise men “rejoiced exceedingly with great joy”. While that may seem redundant, it plays a big part in this story. They are rejoicing and worshipping God for a promise fulfilled. What fulfilled promise can you praise God for? How is He showing up in your life right now?

3. In a book I have been reading by Lysa Terkeurst, she says something that I think is simple yet profound. She says, “I know I must walk through God’s process before I see His fulfilled promise”. The wise men left everything for a journey with substantial risk and nothing but the hope that a star would lead them to God’s promise. What does your process look like right now? What part of it is challenging?
   
   
4. Why do you think the process is necessary?

Prayer: God wants to walk with you in the process and teach you things you’ve never known before. Spend some time praying about the things you journaled.