Honolulu
PASTORS' DAILY DEVOTIONAL
Sep
18
18
According to Your word
Rod Shimabukuro
Scripture
And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” Luke 1:34
And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. Luke 1:38
And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. Luke 1:38
Observation
Luke contrasts the announcement of 2 miraculous births. Gabriel the angelic messenger from God disclosed the alarming and surprising news. One baby would be born to an elderly couple, advanced in years, pass their child bearing years. This child would be John, preparing the way for Jesus, the 2nd miracle baby born to a young virgin named Mary.
Luke also contrasts 2 different responses and attitudes of the parents “to be.” Zechariah was troubled upon hearing Gabriel, asking him, “How shall I know this?” Or in other words, How can this be true - we are too old. Mary’s response was more faith filled and favorable to God - “I am a servant of the Lord - Let it be to me according to your word.”
Luke also contrasts 2 different responses and attitudes of the parents “to be.” Zechariah was troubled upon hearing Gabriel, asking him, “How shall I know this?” Or in other words, How can this be true - we are too old. Mary’s response was more faith filled and favorable to God - “I am a servant of the Lord - Let it be to me according to your word.”
Application
The take home for me is pointed. Be like Mary when I sense the Lord asking or requiring me to obey when it doesn’t make sense (to me). To live differently isn’t as easy as I would like it to be. It means trusting, believing and living in a more bold, courageous way by stepping out of “my comfort” zones.
This is especially true specifically in areas of praying more boldly for people in public places - no matter where I’m at. Or giving, providing for the needy. Obeying the prompting to give away what God wants me to give away - whether that’s finances or possessions.
This is especially true specifically in areas of praying more boldly for people in public places - no matter where I’m at. Or giving, providing for the needy. Obeying the prompting to give away what God wants me to give away - whether that’s finances or possessions.
Prayer
Dear Daddie - I am Your servant - May I do, live and obey...according to Your Word! help me to listen closely to Your promptings and instructions.... and obey instantly, boldly and expectantly!