Can I be honest with you? After a tough season ends, I can look back and spot the blessings. But when I’m in the middle of one? Forget it! In the middle, I tend to focus on what’s going wrong and overlook what’s going right. Does that sound like you, too?
I’ve noticed that my misplaced focus robs me of the peace I could experience despite that moment. It also robs me of being fully present and thankful in that moment. Y’all, I’m so tired of not noticing God in my struggle and of missing my opportunity to praise Him in a tough moment.
This week, we read five prophecies of Jesus in the Old Testament. There’s so much to notice! Jesus’ love and His plan were present. His promises — of victory, justice, salvation and meeting every one of our needs — were there. His faithfulness was evident.
- In the Pentateuch (remember, that’s just a big word for the first five books in the Bible), God says that, though we mess up, Jesus will ultimately overcome evil.
- In her prayers and praise, Hannah speaks about how Jesus will defeat His enemies, rightfully judge and be exalted.
- In poetry, the psalmist declares that what we are searching for and truly long for is found in Jesus.
- Micah, one of the minor prophets, unexpectedly gives us hope through sharing his message that Jesus would be born, come to save us, do God’s will and bring peace.
- Through Jesus’ own words, He tells us who He is and that He’ll bring justice and righteousness with Him when He returns.
Wow! According to these scriptures, victory is sure for those who follow Jesus! He loves us, and He’s everything we need — and He plans to save us.
The next time I’m in a tough season of life, I pray I remember this. I pray you do, too. May we notice Jesus in the moment. May we see our blessings. May who He is and what He offers fill our minds and leave no room to focus on what’s wrong. May our knowledge of these prophecies push us to praise Him. In Jesus’ name, amen!
Brandy
P.S. In this week’s audio teaching, we’ll hear about how biblical prophecy teaches us to depend on Jesus to fulfill all His promises. It’s so good! Take a listen! (Looking for a transcript? Here you go!)