For the past few days, people in many parts of North America have received warnings of severe weather for today. Local schools decided to close a day earlier than planned for the Christmas holidays. When we think of plans, it is wise to read God’s Word to discover what our Creator says about thinking ahead.
In the book of the Acts of the Apostles, we see Peter quoting the prophet Joel: “And it shall be in the last days, God says, that I will pour forth of my Spirit on all mankind … and it shall be that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Acts 2:17-21. Peter then says: “Men of Israel, listen to these words: Jesus the Nazarene, a man attested to you by God with miracles and wonders and signs which God performed through Him in your midst, just as you yourselves know – this Man, delivered over by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death. But God raised Him up again, putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power… Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain that God made Him both Lord and Christ – this Jesus whom you crucified” Acts 2:22-36.
As we approach Christmas, we are reminded of the birth of Jesus and we make plans to be with family and friends. We give presents and enjoy being with loved ones. The late Dr. Charles Stanley observed: “The wise men eagerly journeyed to Bethlehem to give a royal welcome to the baby Jesus – God’s promised gift of salvation to mankind. They packed gold, frankincense, and myrrh so they could join in the heavenly worship of the infant King. These men formed an important part of the celebration that surrounded Christ’s birth. In fact, they represented you in God’s great plan. They came to worship the Lord of lords and the King of kings, and their visit to the Christ child symbolizes the thousands of men and women who have humbly sought the Messiah throughout history.”
In thinking about plans, the following acrostic may help you focus on what is most important in life:
Prepare and pray
Look to the Lord
Acknowledge Him
Never give up
If you have never asked God’s forgiveness for your sins, you can do so today. The Lord Jesus came to deliver mankind from bondage to sin. He alone can set you free! If you are a child of God, declare His glory wherever you go and you will experience the peace that only God provides.
Scripture for the weekend: “‘For I know the plans that I have for you’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.’” Jeremiah 29:11 (NASB)
Thought for the weekend: “Genuine repentance leads not only to a change in attitude, but also to a change in behavior. Merely feeling sorry for some wrong action does not constitute repentance.” – Dr. Charles Stanley (from “The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible”)