The Consolation of Israel

Today’s Verse:

And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. ~Luke 2:25

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One of the many male names that was prominent among the Jews was Simeon. This name would be interchangeable as Simeon or Simon. In Luke 2:25-35, we have the account of this man Simeon. He is one of several notable characters surrounding the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Simeon is an encouragement to us in that he lived his life for the appearance of our Lord. Let us see the man who waited for the consolation of Israel.

We see Simeon’s essence.

The first thing we see about Simeon is his person. He is described as being just and devout. He was a man of truth, righteous, and devoted in his faith. He had a life in the Spirit that was depicted in that he was led of the Spirit. It is a blessing that Simeon is noted as a man who is Spirit-filled. God’s utmost requirement for His people is that we are living for Him in the power of the Spirit. A Spirit walk is essential in overcoming the works of the flesh. Simeon is a man who was consecrated and contented.

We see Simeon’s expectation.

He waited for the consolation of Israel. The Holy Spirit told him one day that he would not see death until he first saw our Lord Jesus Christ. He held tightly to this wonderful promise. He waited with eager anticipation for the appearance of Jesus. There is no greater incentive for living for God than knowing that one day you will see Him. Simeon did not know when this would be, but he knew that it was important that he lived faithfully. One of the greatest virtues God wants us to attain is learning to wait on Him. Waiting on God teaches us to pray. Waiting on God teaches us patience. Waiting on God builds our faith.

We see Simeon encouraged.

The day came when Mary and Joseph brought Jesus into the temple for His dedication. It was revealed to Simeon that the Lord had come. Being led by the Holy Spirit into the temple at the same time, he took the Baby in his arms, held Him, and blessed God. The word consolation means “encouragement.” It is the Greek word paraklesis, which means "to come to the side of." With great elation, he proclaimed, "Mine eyes have seen thy salvation." He had faith that the Baby in his arms was the God and Creator of the universe. He was encouraged that the salvation promised to the world was come. I think Simeon holding Jesus in his arms pictures a faith that holds tightly and closely to Jesus. If you could hold Jesus in your arms, how closely would you hold Him?

We see Simeon’s exit.

"Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word." Simeon knew that his time on earth would soon be over. God fulfilled His promise, and Simeon’s next event would be his departure from this life. Simeon exited with a prayer. He asked if he could depart from this life peaceably. Simeon exited this life with a prophecy. He told Mary and Joseph that the Child is set for the fall and rising of many. Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost. Mary would experience the sorrow of watching Jesus die on the cross. Simeon lived a full life and departed knowing that he lived faithfully. Simeon had God’s comfort throughout his life, but perhaps, he was most comforted the day he held the Baby Jesus and prayed for his exit. Simeon encourages us about the importance of being faithful to the end.

Have a faithful God Morning!

Bible Reading Schedule: 1 Peter 1-5

#Luke #Comfort #Encouragement #Jesus #Simeon