Joy | God with Us
December 14, 2025
In a world where fear often drowns out gladness, Isaiah promised a sign: “Immanuel — God with us.” Joseph faced scandal, Mary faced uncertainty, yet both discovered that joy is not found in circumstances but in God’s presence. Part three of For Unto Us reminds us that the joy of Christmas is the assurance that God has not abandoned us — He has come near, and He is still with us.
Passage
ISAIAH 7:10–16
Principle
- Joy rests on God’s ##promise##, not my ##performance## .
- Joy is rooted in ##presence##, not ##circumstances##.
- Joy believes God is ##working##, even when ##unseen##.
Practice
Choose ##faith## over ##fear## because our God is with us.
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couples or family devotion, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
What’s one of the most joyful greetings or reunions you’ve ever experienced? What made it so memorable?
HEAR
Read Luke 1:39–45
- What do you notice about Elizabeth’s response when Mary arrives?
- How does Elizabeth’s blessing help confirm Mary’s faith?
- When have you experienced God using someone else to affirm His work in your life?
Read Luke 1:46–50
- Mary’s song begins with personal praise: “My soul glorifies the Lord.” What does this teach us about the source of true joy?
- How is Mary’s joy different from simple happiness?
- What practices help you focus on God’s greatness rather than your circumstances?
Read 1:51–56
- Mary sings about God scattering the proud and lifting up the humble. Why is this theme so central to the Gospel?
- How do these verses connect Mary’s personal joy to God’s bigger story of salvation?
- Where do you see God “reversing the order” in your own life or in the world?
HUDDLE
Where are you tempted to let fear or circumstances steal your joy? How can you, like Mary, choose to magnify the Lord this week? Share together and pray for one another to experience the joy of God’s presence.
Reading Plan
- Monday – Isaiah 7:10–16
- Tuesday – Luke 1:39–56
- Wednesday – Isaiah 35:1–10
- Thursday – Psalm 98
- Friday – 1 Peter 1:3–9
- Saturday – Philippians 4:4–7 & Isaiah 12:1–6
Passage to Memorize
Philippians 4:4–7
Think Deeper
- When your fears compete with your faith, which one usually wins?
- How does the name Immanuel (God with us) influence your daily life?
- What difficult situation are you currently facing that God’s presence could transform?