Advent Day 13 - Is God Really with Me?

This year's Advent devotionals are from A Celebration of Advent:
A 25-Day Devotional by New Spring Church of Anderson, SC
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“... the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Isaiah 7:14

This time of year, reminders of Jesus’ birth are everywhere— in Christmas carols, church nativities, and family traditions. But how many of us woke up today with the confidence that God is with us?

Jesus is called “Immanuel” because He is "God with us." It’s one thing to know God is with us; it’s another to experience this truth in our everyday [life]. Jesus promised to never leave us.

God is with us— we can never be separated from His love (Romans 8:38-39).
God is with us— we can accomplish His will for us (Philippians 2:13).
God is with us— we don’t have to live with fear, worry, or dissatisfaction (Philippians 4:4-7).

God is with you when you’re facing the heartache of Christmas without a family. God is with you when you’re fretting over the details of the holidays. And when you’re experiencing the joys of this holiday season, God is with you there, too. This Christmas, let God’s promise lead you to love more fully, give more generously, and live more confidently. He is Immanuel.

Reflect: Read Isaiah 7:10-14, Matthew 1:23
When is it easy to believe that God is with you?
When do you struggle to believe that’s true?
What do you think would change if you sensed God is with you?
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Prayer:

Father,
          Forgive us for putting conditions on our faith and on Your love. Forgive us for letting situational circumstances determine whether or not we believe You are always with us. You promised to never leave us or forsake us. Increase our faith, O God. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen