Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – December 23, 2016
The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.” Luke 1:28-30
From time to time I fear I am not up to the task of the Lord’s call on my life. I put pressure on myself to produce—though God’s Spirit reminds me to remain in His strength and not depend on my own energy. I feel the tug to tell the Lord I am tired and that it’s hard to trust Him during a time of transition. Thankfully, His sweet Spirit settles my soul with reassurance. He says, “Boyd, it’s not about your ability, but about Me and my favor. Be available for I am able.”
Mary faced a similar circumstance in her crisis of faith. When the angel declared her to be highly favored by the Lord, she was troubled. Maybe she didn’t like being the center of attention. The thought of being a vessel of God’s blessing felt overwhelming. Perhaps she feared failure. She did not want to let down the Lord. She thought her modest background disqualified her, but in reality, it qualified her. The Lord highly favors the humble hearted for the glory of His son Jesus.
“If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you” (Exodus 33:13).
What is the Lord asking you to do that might move you out of your comfort zone? Pregnancy, job change, increased giving, missions, lead a Bible study or volunteer at your church? Be thankful, not afraid of the Lord’s favor on your life. Where He calls you, He will equip you. Where He leads you, He will love you through the process. Like grace, God’s favor is a gift to be managed well. Be grateful for any season of success by giving God the glory for His blessings.
False humility may cause us to say, “Why me, Lord?” But true humility bows in grateful praise to God and confesses, “Why not me, Lord?” Like an eager athlete sits on the bench next to the coach awaiting an opportunity to get into the game, so we anticipate our heavenly Father’s instructions to selflessly serve with Him. We steward well the favor of our Lord when we point people to Jesus through our words and deeds. During this Christmas season praise God for the gift of His son Jesus Christ. We testify of His saving faith in our lives. In Christ, we are highly favored!
“Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am available for You and I trust You to use me for Your glory.Related Reading
Genesis 6:8; Exodus 33:12; Psalm 90:17; Luke 2:14, 52; James 4:6Post/Tweet today
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Seeking to understand and embrace Gods Glory even more. I also surrender My Life for the Glory of God so that i pursue God’s calling.
Dear Mpho,
Thank you so much for sharing your statement of commitment and love to God and His purpose for you. You stated so beautifully and clearly your desire to seek Him and I thank Him for all He has planned for you.
Dear friend, your eagerness to draw even closer to God is a mighty testimony for us and for all around you. I can only imagine how you must be shining His Light on the ones in your life! Wow! Praise God!
Claiming Exodus 33:13 over your life. “If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so that I may know you and continue to find favor with you”.
Looking forward to hearing from you again as you continue to walk on this journey with God. We are so thankful that you are a part of the Wisdom Hunter’s family.
Grateful for you,
Gwynne
“Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.” Psalm 73:23-24