By Prince Couisnard Sr.

Ahaz is troubled because the enemy has plans to take over his land and set up a new king in his place. God’s immediate response is something we can cherish as believers: he sends Ahaz a messenger, Isaiah. Thus God personally reveals to Ahaz that he knows the details of his problems and encourages him not to be concerned. God gives him personal words to “take heed, be quiet, fear not, and do not let your heart be faint” (v. 4).

Along with Ahaz, all believers must realize afresh that our God is with us. We must evaluate every battle that the enemy brings with one thing in mind—that we can trust God! We are a part of an eternal plan to establish his kingdom here on earth. We should heed the warning that God clearly communicated to Ahaz, “If you do not stand firm in faith, you shall not stand at all” (v. 9).

The fact that God is always present in advancing his kingdom is surely revealed in his answer to Ahaz. The sign was to be a boy named Emmanuel—God with us! This Advent was determined before the foundations of the world.

My wife and I have been surrounded by threats in our inner city ministry. We have lost many battles, but we know through Christ that we will win the war. We thank God for his promise that he is not only in us but also with us!

I encourage you to meditate on this announcement too as you journey through Advent. Ask God to fully reveal what this sign means to you and the kingdom, so that you can share its powerful message with family and friends this season.

Prayer: In the midst of threats that invade our hearts, you provide, God who is with us and for us. Thank you for coming to us.

Prince Couisnard Sr. is pastor of Christ the Redeemer in Houston, Texas. The 2016 Advent devotions were written by RCA church planters and parent churches.