A Branch from Jesse

Week 2, Day 2 Devotional — Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Theme: A Branch from Jesse

Jesus, the Branch from Jesse, brings new life from what seems cut down. Where we see endings, God brings Spirit-filled beginnings and fresh hope.

Day’s Reading: Isaiah 11:1–2

Key Scriptures

• Isaiah 11:1–2

• Luke 4:18

• Romans 15:12

INTRODUCTION

“There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots.” (Isaiah 11:1)

Isaiah gave this prophecy at a time when the royal line of David looked severed, the nation scattered, and the hope of a king long forgotten. Yet God declared that from what looked like a dead stump, new life would rise.

This promise reached its fulfilment in the first Christmas, when Jesus was born not in a palace, but in a humble manger in Bethlehem—the very city of David. The story of His birth is the living proof that God’s covenant faithfulness does not die.

When Jesus later declared: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me…” (Luke 4:18), He affirmed His identity as the Spirit-anointed Branch Isaiah foretold.

INSIGHT

Kenneth Scott Latourette says that, “The influence of Jesus emerged not from worldly power but from humble beginnings empowered by the Spirit.”³

The Hebrew word for “branch” (netzer) implies unexpected life. Jesus’ upbringing in Nazareth echoes this symbol.

John Goldingay notes, “God’s future often grows out of what looks like loss, decay, or judgment.”¹

Peter Raven observed that some of the strongest shoots grow from stumps that appear dead.²

REFLECTION

• What does the Nativity teach you about God working through humble beginnings?

• Where in your life might God be causing new life to spring up unexpectedly?

STRATEGIC PRAYER POINTS

1. Thank God for His covenant faithfulness revealed in Jesus’ birth.

2. Pray for the Spirit’s anointing—wisdom, counsel, and strength.

3. Intercede for your community for renewal.

MY FAITH CONFESSION

I believe Jesus is the Branch from Jesse. Out of what seems cut down, He brings new life.

FINAL PRAYER

Lord Jesus, You are the promised Branch from Jesse. Let Your Spirit rest upon me—wisdom, strength, and hope. Restore, revive, and renew me. Amen.

ENDNOTES

1. John Goldingay, Isaiah for Everyone, p. 64.

2. Peter H. Raven, Biology of Plants, p. 332.

3. Kenneth Scott Latourette, A History of Christianity, p. 45.