Open Heaven 23 December 2024 – The Reason For His Birth (1)
Jesus’ birth stands as a clear sign that God’s promises never fail. In Isaiah 7:14, God declared through the prophet that a virgin would conceive and bear a son, and His name would be Immanuel, meaning “God with us.” Despite the opposition and wickedness that arose against this divine plan, Jesus’ birth proved that nothing, not even the devil’s attempts to stop it, could thwart God’s plan of redemption.
Additionally, Matthew 1:18-23 tells us about the miraculous conception of Jesus by the Holy Spirit. Initially, Joseph was troubled by Mary’s pregnancy, but an angel reassured him in a dream. The angel explained that the child was the fulfillment of prophecy and would save His people from their sins. Therefore, Jesus’ birth was not merely a historical event; it marked the beginning of God’s ultimate plan for salvation.
Overcoming Sin Through Jesus Christ
Jesus’ birth goes beyond being a historical moment—it serves as a powerful reminder that, through Him, we can overcome the world. John 16:33 assures us that Jesus overcame the world, and through His righteousness, He empowers us to live above sin. Through His birth, death, and resurrection, He grants us the victory over the temptations of this world. As 1 John 5:4-5 affirms, our victory comes through faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Believing in Him strengthens us to overcome.
Moreover, the Bible clearly states that if we are truly born of God, we possess the power to live above sin. 1 John 3:9 declares that those born of God do not continue in sin because His seed remains in them. This truth should revolutionize the way we live. When we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we are not merely commemorating an event—we are celebrating the redemption He offers, which enables us to live victorious lives, free from sin.
Living in the Power of His Birth
As Christians, it’s crucial to recognize that Jesus’ birth isn’t just a story to repeat annually; it serves as the foundation of our new life in Him. Through His birth, we received the gift of salvation, and now we have the power to walk in righteousness, overcoming sin every day. Philippians 2:13 assures us that God works in us to fulfill His perfect will, transforming us into the image of Christ.
Thus, as you celebrate Jesus’ birth this season, remember that His coming empowers you to live a life of victory. Don’t simply indulge in the festivities—embrace the reality that His birth grants you the strength to overcome sin and walk in faith.
The Victory of Jesus’ Birth
In conclusion, Jesus’ birth was not just a moment in time—it marked the beginning of God’s redemptive plan for mankind. Through Him, we are empowered to live above sin and overcome the world. His birth represents our new life in Christ, and by faith, we receive the strength to walk in His victory every day.
Let this truth resonate deeply within you. As we celebrate Jesus’ birth, we are celebrating our freedom from sin, our victory over temptation, and our new identity in Christ. Embrace this reality and walk in the power He has given you.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I thank You for Your birth, Your sacrifice, and the victory You have secured for me. Help me to live above sin and walk in the power of Your resurrection every day. In Your name, Amen.
HYMN 14 – O What A Wonderful, Wonderful Day
- O what a wonderful, wonderful day,
Day I will never forget,
After I’d wandered in darkness away,
Jesus, my Saviour, I met.
O what a tender, compassionate friend,
He met the need of my heart.
Shadows dispelling, with joy I am telling,
He made all the darkness depart.
Chorus:
Heaven came down and glory filled my soul,
When at the cross my Saviour made me whole.
My sins were washed away,
And my night was turned to day.
Heaven came down and glory filled my soul.
- Born of the Spirit with life from above,
Into God’s family divine,
Justified fully through Calvary’s love,
O what a standing is mine.
And the transaction so quickly was made,
When as a sinner I came.
Took of the offer of grace He did proffer,
He saved me, O praise His dear name. - Now I’ve hope that will surely endure,
After the passing of time;
I have a future in Heaven for sure,
There in those mansions sublime.
And it’s because of that wonderful day,
When at the cross I believed;
Riches eternal and blessings supernal,
From His precious hand I received.
