Simeon's Song

Read: Luke 2:25-35
 
Devoted to God – verse 25
    We are introduced to Simeon as a man who is a just man devoted to God.  I wonder what that looked like 2000 years ago. What did he do differently from others around him? He was also waiting for the promised One who would bring consolation (comfort) to a world in turmoil. His total belief in God's promises indicates that Simeon knew these promises well. He believed that God had revealed them through the prophets.  He was a man who loved and served God so thoroughly that the Holy Spirit filled him.

• Ask yourself this question: Do I believe, follow and obey God fully so that the Holy Spirit indwells me and works through my life?

 
In Tune with God – verse 26
     Simeon was in such a close relationship with God that the Holy Spirit spoke directly to him. He listened and understood the message.  I doubt this was the first time Simeon put action to what God was telling him. Following God's directions was a natural part of Simeon's character. We need to be in tune with God and live so that we can hear and understand His messages.

• When was the last time God spoke to you with a message you heard, understood and obeyed?

 
Prompted by God – verses 27 - 28
When the Spirit of God prompted Simeon, he acted immediately. He didn't wait or ask for an explanation. We need to immediately respond when God speaks to us, with no questions or excuses. 
Ø Write down something that God has asked you to do.  Did you respond correctly? What was the result?
 
Waiting for God – verse 29
    God kept His promise to Simeon. Simeon saw the Messiah before he died and then had peace, knowing it would soon be time to leave this world.  Simeon faithfully waited for God's promise to be fulfilled, honouring God in all he did as he waited.   

•  What promise has God made to you? How have you honoured Him while waiting for this promise to be fulfilled?
  

 
Shinning for God – verses 30-32
    Simeon lived to see "the salvation" just as God promised.  He saw Jesus.  How thrilled he must have been.  He held the promised Messiah, Saviour, and Light of the world.  Jesus, the One worthy of all praise, honour, and glory; for Israel and the Gentiles. I need to shine the light of Jesus to all of those God brings into my life.  I need to give Christ honour and glory for the things He does in my life.

•  Ask yourself: When was the last time I shared the gospel message with someone? When was the last time I praised God for just being God?

 
Guided by God – verse 33
Jesus' parents listened carefully to Simeon's song and all he said. They were amazed! Because Mary and Joseph only had a small idea of what God had planned for this child, they needed to walk by faith daily, one step at a time.

• Is God leading you through an uncharted course?  Are you trusting Him one step at a time? Discover a Bible verse or passage you can claim and recite when those steps seem particularly precarious. Find a song you can sing with confidence claiming God's presence with you each day.  

Suggestions: (Psalm 23) (Day by Day or Step by Step)
    
Surrender to God – verses 34-35
    Simeon ended the visit with Mary & Joseph by proclaiming a blessing over them. But then he spoke directly to Mary.  His message was not a happy one.  Mary was warned that she would suffer great sorrow. Mary was given a warning of the sadness she would endure in the future.

• How do you respond to deep sadness?  Are you able to honour God no matter what the circumstances?  I need to surrender to the Lord and allow His Spirit to control me during these times.