Scripture to Read: Matthew 2
Today we read about the magi in Matthew 2. We do not know much about the magi and we are not sure how many visited our Lord as a child. Through tradition, because of the three gifts, many believe there were only three magi but there could have been many. God, in His sovereign work and will, led the magi to Bethlehem. The magi brought gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh as recorded in Matthew 2:11. These were actually customary gifts offered to honor a king in the ancient world. Gold as a precious metal, frankincense as a perfume, and myrrh as an anointing oil often used at a burial for embalming. Many scholars think these gifts were chosen for their spiritual symbolism about Jesus: gold representing Christ’s kingship, frankincense as a symbol of Christ’s priestly role, and myrrh as a foreshadowing of Christ’s death. The meaning of the three gifts became more popular through the Christmas carol “We Three Kings.” The point is that God led these magi to our Lord to honor Him, for He is the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. God is always at work leading us according to His Word. As we read in Matthew 2:12, “And having been warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod, the magi left for their own country by another way.” God also lovingly warns us, through His Word and godly counsel, to guide our decisions. We need to listen and obey Him so we honor Him through our lives.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about His loving protection and guidance in your life?
2. How are you doing in listening to God through His Word and seeking godly counselors in your life?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!