Chosen

Gabriel appeared to her and said, “Greetings favored woman! The Lord is with you!

Luke 1:28

Seasons have been there since the beginning of time and have great effects on our lives. Everything God designed is for a purpose, including seasons of life. We learn from the Bible that seasons point us to Jesus and the beauty of the gospel.

God chose Mary to be the mother of Jesus. She was young and unmarried, neither was she from a royal family nor was she engaged to a powerful man.  By human standards, Mary was an unusual choice to be Jesus’ Mom.  And that is exactly how God wanted it.

God desires our obedience.  Sometimes we get it twisted and believe God needs our talents to accomplish His purpose.  Other times, we feel like we couldn’t possibly be used because we think we have nothing to give.  The truth is although God does not need our help, He allows us to use our abilities which he gave us because He is gracious.  When we are faithful to what God has called us to do, we get to be part of His plan.  And like Mary, we get to carry Jesus to the world.

At the time when Mary was overwhelmed with excitement of being engaged, she became confused and disturbed when she tried to figure out this announcement the angel had just made. Consequently, she was filled with great joy and broke into worship and praise after being told that she was going to be the mother of Jesus. God gave Mary his grace with the ability to do something which is humanly impossible to do.  When you are connected to God’s favor, you are connected to good and grace as his child. He is able to step into your situation miraculously as we walk in obedience.

As a child of God, you are greatly blessed, highly favored and deeply loved! That’s how he thinks of you today in whatever season you find yourself. God's favor should motivate us with a longing to share Jesus in our world. When the Lord is the center of your life, nothing will stand in the way of his purposes. He will guide each step no matter how challenging it may appear! His favor will open doors that will surprise you like he did with Mary.

Dear Lord, thank you for the great reminder that I am highly favored. Help me to rely on you totally when I go through various seasons of life to know that you are in complete control and will see me through. Give me courage to believe you for greater things. Amen

Reflect: How might God be able to use your weakness for His purpose?

What about your attitude needs to change so that Jesus might be honored through your life?