Steve Fryer

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The Fulfillment of Promises Made Long Ago

“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.”

To modern ears, this verse is a familiar, warm, and comforting centerpiece of the Christmas story. But to those who first heard these words from the angel on the night Jesus was born, every word was electric, buzzing with fulfilled expectations.

A Savior.
Born in Bethlehem, the town of David.
The Messiah.
The Lord.

For centuries, Israel had lived with a promise. The prophet Isaiah had declared, “To us a child is born, to us a son is given… and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Jeremiah had spoken of a righteous branch from David’s line, a King who would reign wisely and bring justice (Jeremiah 23:5). Micah, too, had foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, David’s town (Micah 5:2).

So when the angel announced this birth to shepherds under the night sky, it wasn’t just news, it was fulfillment. This baby wasn’t an ordinary child; He was the long-awaited Rescuer, the anointed one, the Christ. The word Messiah meant “the Anointed One,” a title reserved for the one chosen and empowered by God to save His people.

And this Messiah didn’t come to rule from a throne of gold, but to lay in a manger, wrapped in humility and love. He came not to conquer Rome, but to conquer sin on the cross. He did not come to elevate Himself, but to lift us. The Lord—God Himself—had come near, just as He said He would.

Prayer and Praise

Throughout our lives, we will all experience both suffering and joy. We'll have times of great grief and times of overwhelming happiness. Sometimes, these experiences will happen in separate seasons. But at other times, they will merge at the same time.

In either case, James expected Christians to come to God. If someone was suffering, prayer was the call to action. If someone was cheerful, praise was the clear next step.

In every circumstance or situation, let’s remember to take both our prayer and praise to God. When we do that, we keep our eyes on Jesus, and He helps us endure every situation we face.

So what are you facing right now? Take a moment to pray to God and tell Him all you’re going through. Then, reflect on the good things happening in your life, and praise Him for who He is!

James 5:13 Is anyone among you afflicted (ill-treated, suffering evil)? He should pray. Is anyone glad at heart? He should sing praise [to God]. | Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) | Download The Bible App Now Is anyone among you afflicted (ill-treated, suffering evil)? He should pray. Is anyone glad at heart? He should sing praise [to God].