CHARACTER STUDY ~ THE DEVOUT SIMEON

The name Simeon means "He (God) has heard," "He who hears," and "listening" or "hearing". In Jerusalem, Simeon was mentioned only in the Gospel of Luke as a devout man. There's nothing said of him to be a priest. 

Some Characteristics of Simeon:

√ Simeon was a just and devout man. Although he did not hold any position in the temple, he was a just and devout man. We must emulate Simeon to serve God faithfully irrespective of our position in the church. 

√ Simeon was awaiting the Consolation of Israel. He trusted God to fulfil what He had promised. In all things, we should be encouraged when the going gets tough that God will perfect His will in our lives. 

√ Simeon had the Holy Spirit upon him. The absence of the Holy Spirit makes service lifeless. We must invite Him to fill us so we can be divinely directed to the true way of life. The same Holy Spirit led him to the temple when baby Jesus was brought there. 

√  Simeon received a revelation from the Holy Spirit that he would not see death until he had seen the Lord’s Christ. This revelation was fulfilled when Joseph and Mary brought baby Jesus to the temple. He thanked God for fulfilling His word in his life.

√ Simeon blessed the baby Jesus. We must pray and pronounce good things in the lives of little children. 

√ Simeon blessed both Joseph and Mary. We must also learn from Simeon that as we pray for children we must also commit their parents to God's Hands. 

√ Simeon prophesied about the suffering of both Jesus and His mother:  “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

Supporting Scripture: Luke 2: 25-35