We may not be able to relate to ancient kings and kingdoms of the old testament, but we can relate to a man who chooses fear over faith in God's promise. In the stresses that come with the Christmas season maybe we feel the need to impress others, spends far too much on elaborate gifts, host the perfect party, create the best Christmas card, or finally win that ugly sweater contest. In all this business we have to remind ourselves of who God is and what He has done. In the midst of Christmas we may have to be reminded that God has sent us His Son.

Today once again we look to the book of Isaiah. For a bit of context Israel had split into two kingdoms, Israel in the north and Judah to the south. Ahaz was the king of Judah and he and his people were fearful of attack from Israel and their allies. Instead of trusting in God Ahaz was looking to Assyria. This is why he doesn’t ask God for a sign.

Isaiah is trying to remind Ahaz of the covenant God has given His people when he refers to the house of David. He is told that a virgin will bear a son called Immanuel. God is with us and the things we dread and fear will not stand against God. God has and will come again.

Austin

Isaiah 7:10-16

10 Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz: 11 “Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven.” 12 But Ahaz said, “I will not ask, and I will not put the Lord to the test.” 13 And he said, “Hear then, O house of David! Is it too little for you to weary men, that you weary my God also? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. 15 He shall eat curds and honey when he knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good. 16 For before the boy knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good, the land whose two kings you dread will be deserted.

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

+ What does the Lord say Ahaz? [v11]
+ How does Ahaz respond? [v12]
+ Who is weary? [v.13]?
+ What will the Lord give? [v. 14]?
+ What is the sign? [v.14]
+ What will he do? [v. 15]
+ What will happen? [v.16]

[ 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?

+ What is a dread or distraction at Christmas time that takes away from the sign God has given?

+ What can you do in this advent season to remind yourself that God has sent us a sign?

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

+ What is my next step?