Isaiah 55:9, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

Think

"Expecting the unexpected is unexpectedly exciting!" Every year, from football games to family gatherings, we eagerly look forward to what this season will bring. When we read the story of Jesus in the New Testament, it's paramount to realize that the Jewish people were in this same kind of season of anticipation. But more than football, food, or family, they were anticipating the fulfillment of everything they had put their faith in for thousands of years! But when Jesus arrived, he didn't appear to be the kind of Messiah they hoped for. Their expectations were unmet. After all, could the King of kings really be born in lowly conditions and raised in a common family? But if you fast forward through Jesus' life, it's clear to see that he not only met their ultimate expectations, he exceeded them! When it comes to God, what do you anticipate? Better yet, when he doesn't act in a way you expected, what is your reaction? Just because God doesn't move the way you expected doesn't mean he isn't doing something big. The question is, are you ready?

Act

Write down a prayer of anticipation for this season. Admit to God what you are hoping for when it comes to your family, health, career, or finances. Then, ask him to work in those areas in his time and in his way. At the end of the holiday season, go back to this prayer and discover how God worked!

Pray

God, I know that you move in ways that oftentimes I don't see and can't understand. Help me as I go through today to simply trust that your ways are greater and to expect the unexpected when it comes to you!