December 11

We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight
Read: Luke 2:1-7, 2 Corinthians 5:1-7

When Caesar Augustus ordered a census, the timing couldn’t have been worse for Joseph and Mary. They were unmarried, and Mary was ready to give birth. Traveling 70 miles to Bethlehem was far from ideal for a woman so close to delivery.

Today, Bethlehem holds special meaning for us, but for Joseph and Mary, it was an exhausting, uncomfortable journey filled with stares and rejections. Yet, what Caesar intended for tax purposes, God used to fulfill His prophecy that Israel’s ruler would come from Bethlehem.

“We walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). The road to Bethlehem was a journey of faith, teaching Joseph and Mary to rely on God’s promises rather than their circumstances. Just like them, we are called to trust God’s vision over our own, especially when the path feels hard. Faith means believing that God’s sight is clearer than ours, that every challenge can be used for His glory and our growth.

TAKE A MOMENT TO THINK:
> Read 2 Corinthians 4:16-18.
> How can tough times give us strength?
> Consider Hebrews 11:1.
> What are you hoping for this coming year, and what
    step of faith is God asking you to take?