FRIDAY December 6, 2019
Rejoice, Highly Favored One
Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
Luke 1:26-28
During the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, the angel Gabriel was sent by God to give another incredible message. This time, the angel went into the city in Galilee, to Nazareth, to a young virgin named Mary. She was betrothed––pledged to be married to a godly young man Joseph.
Mary must have been shocked to be approached by an angel with such an amazing salutation! The angel told her to rejoice! In God’s sight, Mary was highly favored; His holy presence was with her. Mary was blessed among women, but how would she be blessed? God had an amazing plan for her life––more than she could have ever imagined.
Although Mary did not yet fully understand the reason for the angel’s visit, the message of the angel would be in accordance with the prophecies recorded in the Old Testament Scriptures. She was to be a human vessel, chosen among all the women on earth, to perfectly fit into God’s plan. Everything was about to fall into place; she would soon understand.
Most Christians do not have encounters with angels; our life-changing experiences are usually based on God’s Word. He transforms our lives and uses us to do His will and work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). God, in His wisdom, often does not show us His entire plan for our lives––He takes us on a journey of faith, one step at a time. Even if we do not understand the path God is leading us on, we must simply trust and obey Him.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.
~Proverbs 3:5-6~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!
