The Promise of Immanuel and a Test of Faith

The kings of Aram and Israel joined together to attack Judah, and King Ahaz and the people were terrified. God sent the prophet Isaiah to comfort Ahaz: do not be afraid, for the enemies' plan will not succeed. God told Ahaz to ask for a sign to strengthen his faith, but Ahaz pretended to be devout and refused. So God Himself gave a wonderful sign: a virgin would conceive and bear a son, and his name would be Immanuel, which means "God is with us." This promise went far beyond Ahaz's own unbelief — it announced to all peoples that God Himself would come among His people. However hard the road we walk, He is faithfully with us. We are called to respond in faith, trusting His word and trusting His presence.