When golfers hit a ball that is in danger of coming close to another golfer, they yell “fore!” “Fore” means “watch out, something’s coming. Be alert!” Well, that’s our word for today – for.
I want to draw your attention to a great Christmas text. It is Isaiah 9:6:
“For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest upon His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.”
Now did you notice that this verse begins with the little word, “for?” “For” is a Hebrew connective word, linking what is about to be said with what has already been said.
Isaiah is writing to the Southern Kingdom of Judah, telling them that there will be dark days and troubling times ahead unless they mend their evil ways. Chapter 9, then, begins with a description of the grievous affliction and darkness that will come upon them. But in the midst of all that Isaiah gives Israel a message of hope. He says, “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; Those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them.” So, how will this happen? Well, verse 6 says “for.” Here’s the answer: “for a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us.” In other words, the answer is in a PERSON – a child born, a Son given – who will come to redeem His people. “For.”
Say, in the midst of your troubling times, hear the Holy Spirit say, “for” as He draws your attention to Jesus.