God’s Faithfulness in Difficult Relationships
Erica Wiggenhorn
“Joshua also set up twelve stones in the middle of the Jordan where the priests who carried the ark of the covenant were standing. The stones are still there today” (Joshua 4:9, CSB).
“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21 (NIV)
“Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.” John 16:7 (ESV)
“… The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God is with us’).” Isaiah 7:14 (NLT)
“And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” Genesis 3:15 (NIV)
“When the angels had left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go straight to Bethlehem and see what has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.’ They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the manger.” Luke 2:15-16 (CSB)
Gracious God, on this fourth Sunday of Advent, we open our hearts in quiet expectation and love. As we draw near to the celebration of Christ’s birth, help us to welcome Him with faith and humility, like Mary did. Fill our homes and lives with Your peace, even as the world waits in longing. Let our love for others reflect the love You so freely give to us. We thank You for the gift of Immanuel — God with us — now and always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
“After Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained the way of God to him more accurately.” Acts 18:26b (CSB)
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” John 14:6 (NIV)
“Joshua also set up twelve stones in the middle of the Jordan where the priests who carried the ark of the covenant were standing. The stones are still there today” (Joshua 4:9, CSB).
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18, NIV).
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2a, NIV).
“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, KJV).