Matthew 3:1-4:25

What God said to me – “It is written” – that was My response to temptation.  But not just to temptation but to everything I ever encountered.  My word has the answers for life and My Spirit is your teacher.  You must spend much time reading, studying, and asking questions.  As you struggle through and wrestle with the difficult passages, I will teach you.  I will shine My light so you can see and understand.  As you do this, it will become a part of your very life.  The things you do and the things you say will be said and done in the light of what you have learned from Me.  I want you to learn to lead an “it is written” life where everything you say and do is based on My word.  To so this, you must know My word.  To know My word, you must spend much time in it.  Devote yourself to My word.

Matthew 2:1-22

What God said to me – Those who earnestly seek Me will find Me for I will show Myself to them.  Do you earnestly seek Me, or do you come only when it’s convenient for you – when I “fit” into your schedule?  If it takes much effort on your part to come after Me, will you still do it?  I show Myself to all, but only those who earnestly seek Me will find Me.  I’m not just speaking about the lost, but about Christians too.  For the most part, even My own children are not willing to spend the time to find Me, to know Me intimately. To those who do, I will reveal Myself and speak to them as My friend.  You must learn not to obsess about the “stuff” that you think must be done.  Seek Me first and I’ll take care all of that.  Come spend time with Me, My friend.  Let Me show Myself to you.

Matthew 1:1-25

What God said to me – Immanuel – God with us.  This great truth is still true today.  “I AM” with you today and always.  Think about that – “I AM” with you.  You are Mine and I’ll never leave you.  The depth of that truth is more than you can ever understand but you can learn to walk in it day by day, moment by moment.  Constantly turn your thoughts toward Me.  Seek My direction with every person you encounter, every project you work on, every step you take.  Turn to Me and ask, “now what Lord”, “what do I do”, “what do I say”.  When something happens to hinder your schedule or cause you to change directions, turn to Me knowing that “I AM” with you and I will guide you through whatever it is.  “I AM” with you always – that doesn’t mean just for eternity – it means for this day – for this very moment.