Sunday, December 8, 2024

Have you ever looked for a sign to confirm a choice or decision you were unsure of? Seeking signs and wonders to offer validation for choices or direction spans across cultures and throughout history. We even read of it in the Bible. In fact, the shepherds were told of a sign at the time of Christ’s birth.

Luke 2:12
“And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”

But the swaddling clothes and manger themselves are not the point; instead, those things are meant to point us to God.

So often we look for signs from God when we should be looking for God himself. In this season of Advent, as you prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth, rather than simply seeking joy or peace or love—seek the source of those things.

Set aside time to seek God and be in his presence. Then respond to the following questions and reflect on how you can take a step or two forward to deepen your connection with him.

Prayer:
Lord, I can sometimes get caught up in looking for little indications that you exist or are near. But, Lord, your Word reminds us that Jesus is our Immanuel—God with us. You sent your Spirit to remind me that I am your child (Romans 8:15). Father, help me to not get so focused on the signs that I miss you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Discussion Questions:

• Ice breaker: What is an amusing superstitious behavior you’ve seen or heard of?
• Why do people often look for signs and wonders when making decisions?
• Read Acts 2:22, Acts 2:43, and Romans 8:15-17. What do you learn about signs and wonders in Scripture?
• Why do we want God to prove himself through signs and wonders? How can this cause us to miss him?
• What is one thing you can do this week to remain focused on God?

Series Theme Verse:

Romans 15:19
They were convinced by the power of miraculous signs and wonders and by the power of God’s Spirit. In this way, I have fully presented the Good News of Christ from Jerusalem all the way to Illyricum.

This post was written by Kelly Pagel, Director of the LivingItOut.