Excel Still More
The Excel Still More podcast is designed to help Christians excel in their faith, their relationships, and really every part of their lives. If you are interested in growth in your faith, this is the show for you. If you want to see yourself reach greater heights, achieve powerful spiritual goals, and be a better servant of Christ, we are here to help. Each episode introduces a proven principle for achieving more. Then we show how the Word of God amplifies the idea. Finally, each episode will leave you with at least one practical project so you can put these tools into action today!Thanks for joining! Live your best life in Christ, and in whatever you do: Excel Still More!
Excel Still More
Matthew 2 - Daily Bible Devotional
Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)
Youtube Video Introducing the Content
Feel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.com
Matthew 2
Matthew documents the events immediately following Jesus’ birth. From the worshipping magi to the conniving Herod to the angel sending the family to Egypt, everything culminates in the murderous rampage of the king killing all the young boys in Bethlehem. Following Herod’s death, an angel directs Jesus’ family back to Nazareth. The significance of this chapter is found in the prophecies. Micah states a Ruler will come from Bethlehem. Hosea tells of God’s Son coming from Egypt. Jeremiah teaches there will be weeping at the loss of children. An unnamed prophet predicts that the Messiah will be called a Nazarene. Matthew is aligning the story of Jesus with the prophets of old. This would carry tremendous weight for the Jew and should demonstrate God’s design and control to us as well.
God controls how things come together for the good of His will and His people. Before Jesus was born, God knew all things. He used prophets to confirm His power to us. Life was not easy for those whom God chose to be a part of this incredible story. Circumstances were hard for Joseph and Mary, and certainly for families who lost their children to Herod’s wrath. But God was working on something beautiful and eternal. You are eternally blessed as the result of so much suffering and loss. God allowed this to save and bless you. Be thankful for those who labored in faith to bring about our Lord’s victory and stand prepared to struggle in His honor.
Compassionate Father, thank You for the word of the prophets, confirming our faith in Jesus Christ. Thank You for the examples of sacrifice throughout the life of Jesus that have graciously invited us into the redemptive story with Him. Will you give us the wisdom to see how much you endured to establish spiritual life and hope? Help us to be grateful for Your willingness to keep working on us, even amid the efforts of evil men. And may we return thanks by being worshipful and obedient like the magi in the days of Jesus’ birth.
Thought Questions:
- How does it strengthen your faith to see the story of Christ being revealed through Old Testament prophecies? What do they prove?
- What do you learn about faithfulness from the hardships of Joseph and Mary? What should you expect in your life of devotion to God?
- How can you see God’s power and goodness when babies were allowed to die at Herod’s hand? How does it cast your eyes more toward eternity?