When
Jesus was eight days old, Joseph and Mary took Him to the Temple in Jerusalem
to present Him to the Lord (Read Luke 2:21-35). Unbeknownst to them, an elderly
man named Simeon was already waiting for them. The Holy Spirit had revealed to
him that he would not die until he saw the Messiah, so that day the Spirit
guided him into the temple complex. Simeon is an example for us in three ways.
1. Simeon
knew how to hear from God. He
lived close to the heart of God and had a passion to see the long-awaited Messiah.
God spoke to him that he would see the Christ before he died.
2. Simeon
knew how to be guided by the Spirit.
The Holy Spirit guided him into the temple at just the right time when Joseph
and Marry would arrive. When Simeon saw Jesus, he knew that He was the Messiah.
Again we see how clearly this man was in touch with God. He didn’t have an
angel pointing Him out. Immediately when he saw Jesus, he prayed, “Now Lord,
you can let your servant depart in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have
seen your salvation.” (2:29-30). This was another sign to Joseph and Mary
concerning His identity.
3. Simeon
knew how to speak God’s message.
He prophesied to Mary that Jesus was appointed for the fall and rise of many in
Israel … and that a sword would pierce her own soul (v.34-35). This was not
what Mary wanted to hear about her child! But obviously, God wanted her to hear
it so she would know that He would become the sacrificial Lamb for the sins of
the world. Years later, as she watched Jesus die on the cross, no doubt she
remembered this prophecy of Simeon.
We
all need to hear from God, be guided by the Holy Spirit, and boldly speak His
truth to others. It all begins by drawing near to Him and being willing to do
His will. www.kentcrockett.blogspot.com
******************************************Read studies on BIBLE PROPHECY and END TIMES at Making Life Count Ministries. Learn what the Bible teaches about the Antichrist, the Rapture, and the Second Coming.
Two
books to help you grow in your faith:
SlayingYour Giants (ON SALE for $8.99) is filled with numerous interesting stories, humor, and practical
advice (for teenagers and adults)The Sure Cure for Worry (ON SALE for $11.74) contains some amazing true stories and will help the reader see God is in control. (For those who may doubt the existence of God and those who need guidance)
