He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.

Daniel 2:21

The Christmas story is not a self-contained event that happened in a vacuum; it is the culmination of centuries of divine preparation and sovereign work. Long before a star appeared in the sky or the Magi began their journey, God was orchestrating the flow of history. He raised up and deposed kings, and He placed the right people in the right places at the right time. Just as a movie trailer offers a glimpse of the full film, God often provides us with “previews” of His providence in our lives—small, seemingly insignificant moments that, in hindsight, were perfectly set up to lead to a future outcome.

When we are in the middle of a difficult or confusing situation, it can be nearly impossible to see God’s hand at work. Stress and anxiety can cloud our perspective, making us feel like we are completely alone and that our situation is spiraling out of control. But the larger narrative of Scripture, from Daniel to the Magi, reassures us that God’s providence is always ahead of us. He knows the end from the beginning, and He is working all things together for the good of those who love Him. The challenge for us is to look back with a grateful heart and to begin looking forward with a trusting one. We can find unhurried peace in the present moment by recognizing that God is not just reacting to our circumstances; He is actively, intentionally, and lovingly orchestrating them.

Reflect on a past difficult situation and identify one way you can now see God was working to set up future events for you.

Questions for Reflection

1. Think about a recent challenging experience. What is one way that experience, in hindsight, prepared you for a future event?

2. How does the belief that God is "always ahead of us" change the way you approach stress or uncertainty in your life?

3. What specific action can you take this week to be more spiritually alert to God’s hand at work in your immediate circumstances?