April 15, 2013 (1 Samuel 17; Psalm 9; Matthew 2)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “When it was time to leave, they returned to their own country by another route, for God had warned them in a dream not to return to Herod.” Matthew 2:12 NLT
Observation: The wise men saw the star in the east and began their journey to meet Jesus and worship Him. They went to Jerusalem and asked Herod where is the new born King of the Jews? Herod was deeply disturbed because he was concerned about loosing his authority. A new born king threatened his kingship. After interrogating the wise men Herod sent them on to Bethlehem to find Jesus. Herod asks the wise men to let him know where they found the child so he could come worship Him too. But the Lord knew Herod’s heart. He knew what his real desire was. God warned the wise men in a dream not to return to Herod. They returned to their own country by another route.
Application: The wise men traveled a great distance to find Jesus. When they found Him they responded with thanksgiving, joy and worship. Notice the wise men went looking for Jesus, Jesus was not sent out to look for the wise men. In today’s world we expect Jesus to come looking for us; we expect Him to explain His actions, prove who He is and give us gifts! One thing is for sure when a person does meet Jesus their lives take a new route. Jesus impacts our lives in such a way that we change course. Just as the wise men walked a new route back home so must we. After an encounter with Jesus we must listen to the voice of God and heed what He says. He will provide and protect us from the enemy just like He protected the infant Jesus.
Prayer: Dear Lord thank You for this day. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day. Thank You for the new direction You give to those that have met Jesus. Thank You for providing instruction that protects us from our enemies. I lift up praise to Your name and worship You for who You are, in Jesus name, Amen!