Network Discipling Ministries

GOD WITH US

“and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” – Matthew 1:23

It is rather very interesting and important to note that the angel Gabriel confirmed the name that was foretold by the prophet Isaiah for the son of the favored virgin, Mary. The name Emmanuel, which means “God with us,” tells us beyond any doubt that the Jesus who walked this earth was not simply Mary’s first-born son. He was and is God.

“God with us” is a heaven-sent package which carries a whole range of blessings for Adam’s fallen race. It speaks of God being among us, not simply as one in the crowd of humanity, but also as One who assumed humanity itself and lived as our equal. The Bible says of this God, who is also called Jesus by Gabriel (Matthew 1:21), that it was compulsory for Him to be made flesh and blood like us so that He could be the merciful and faithful intercessor for our sins, before the Father in heaven (Hebrews 2:14-18). The Scriptures also says that Christ has absolutely no shame in calling us His brothers and sisters:

10It was fitting that God, for whom and through whom all things exist, in bringing many children to glory, should make the pioneer of their salvation [Jesus] perfect through sufferings. 11For the one who sanctifies [Jesus] and those who are sanctified [believing humanity] all have one Father. For this reason Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters, 12saying, “I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters . . .”

Hebrews 2:10, NRSV

Therefore, “God with us” means I have a Savior who truly understands everything about me—my sins, struggles, heartaches, headaches, weaknesses, infirmities, to name a few—and can sympathize and help me in my every situation, without judging me. He walked the earth not simply in my shoes, but also in my skin. “God with us” also means I have a very present help in trouble, and in time of need. Jesus is my great “I Am”—my Bread and Water of life, my Light, my Good Shepherd, my Redeemer, my Healer, my Deliverer, my Provider, my Protector, my Enabler, my resurrection and life; and my all and in all.

Thank God, Jesus is always with me; for He will never leave me, or forsake me. Emmanuel means, NOTHING can separate me from God being with me!

NRSV refers to the New Revised Standard Version of the Holy Bible