Today's passage closes out the first chapter of Luke with an eye to the future. The beautiful, prophetic word of praise that Zachariah just voiced indicated what work John would do for the coming Savior. Today's passage points briefly to what would happen between the time that prophecy was given, to the time it would be fulfilled. Luke's continued literary tie between John and Jesus, demonstrated throughout this first chapter, is also present in this verse, as a similar verse will close out the next chapter. While simple and fairly straight forward, this verse echoes in our own lives. God has called each of us for a purpose, and prepares us to fulfill that purpose at the right time or times. John remained faithful to God's calling both in how he prepared and lived his life, and in his message. God grew John to be the person He called him to be.

May the word of God encourage us to prepare for the work God has for each of us, and to remain faithful as He grows us.

Luke 1.80

80 And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day of his public appearance to Israel.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ Who is the child in this verse? [look back to Luke 1.63, if needed]

+ What growth do we see in John?

+ Where did he live? (This sets him up to fulfill the prophecy of Isaiah 40.3, which we will touch on in a couple chapters)

+ After remaining in the wilderness, what does this verse indicate John would do next?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ How is God growing you, and for what purpose?

+ What step should you take this week to continue to follow God's plan, or to return to what work God is calling you to?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?