Born in a Manger

WEEKLY DEVOTIONAL BY PATRICE TSAGUE

Where were you born?
How has your birthplace limited or enhanced your life?
Has the vision for where you are going in life or business been influenced by your birthplace or origin?

Who would have known that the baby born in a manger would grow up to become the Savior of the world? God, the Creator of the universe, could have chosen anywhere on earth as the birthplace for His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. But He chose a manger – a place where animals are fed. Greatness does not necessarily appear in the finest packages or places.

A manger symbolizes any place or circumstance that has few resources and the least amount of comfort and honor. It is the most unlikely place for someone or something great to be born. Unfortunately, many people limit their scope based upon their birthplace or background, without realizing that often the worst circumstances bring about greatness. In my journey as a business coach and trainer, I have heard countless stories about entrepreneurs who grew up in very difficult circumstances or had very limited resources. They began their business in their kitchens, living rooms, or basements. Some even initially faced bankruptcy, but eventually went on to create great companies.

Zechariah 4:10 says, “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin…”

It is not important how something or someone starts, but it matters more how they end.

Abraham was born into a family that served many gods. He was the owner of a sheep and cattle business, and could not conceive a child with his wife. However, he became the father of our faith, and millions of people are descended directly from him.

Rahab was a prostitute in Jericho, whose act of faith in assisting the Israelite spies not only brought her into the family of God, but also made her a direct ancestor of the Savior Jesus Christ.

Gideon was from the weakest clan in Manasseh and the least of his household, but he went on to lead a tiny army that delivered the Israelites from their enemies.

Just like Abraham, Rahab, and Gideon, you are destined for greatness, born to make a difference, and created for a purpose. Do not allow your circumstances or your geography to limit you. The outcome of your destiny is determined not by your birthplace or circumstances, but by the originator of your calling, your Creator God.

Jesus’ parents were not discouraged as they faced difficulties when the birth of Christ approached, because of the promise attached to the One being born and their faith in God. Our ability to continue to believe and remain faithful as we face difficulties in the birthing of our vision is based on our faith in God and our belief in what we are birthing and, most importantly, in the One who has birthed it within us.

Do not assume that you will not face difficulties just because God is with you. On the contrary, if you are called by God, you will face difficulties. But – God being with you gives you the grace to persevere through the difficulties rather than avoid them.

My prayer for you today is that God will give you the grace and strength to persevere until you fulfill your Divine calling, as you come to the realization that, just as for Jesus, the vision that He has given you originated far beyond the place or circumstances of your birth.